A nurse on the postpartum unit is caring for a client who delivered vaginally 3 hr ago. Which of the following manifestations is a possible indication of postpartum hemorrhage?
Apical pulse 66/min.
Temperature 38.3 C (101° F).
Blood pressure 156/80 mm Hg.
Respiratory rate 32/min.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
An apical pulse of 66/min is within the normal range and not indicative of postpartum hemorrhage, which would typically cause an elevated heart rate due to blood loss.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38.3°C (101°F) could indicate infection or inflammation but is not a direct sign of postpartum hemorrhage, which primarily involves significant blood loss.
Choice C rationale
Blood pressure of 156/80 mm Hg is elevated but not directly indicative of postpartum hemorrhage, which would typically result in a drop in blood pressure due to loss of blood volume.
Choice D rationale
A respiratory rate of 32/min is significantly elevated and can be a compensatory response to hypovolemia from postpartum hemorrhage. This response occurs as the body tries to increase oxygen delivery due to blood loss.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assisting the client's partner to apply counterpressure to the sacrum can help alleviate the low-back pain associated with early labor by providing direct pressure to the area experiencing discomfort.
Choice B rationale
Maintaining the client on bed rest until active labor begins is not typically recommended, as mobility can help with the progression of labor and pain management.
Choice C rationale
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not necessary for managing low-back pain in early labor and can increase the risk of infection and discomfort.
Choice D rationale
Teaching the client to hold their breath during contractions is not advisable, as it can lead to increased pain and decreased oxygenation for both the mother and baby. Breathing techniques are usually recommended to manage pain and ensure adequate oxygen delivery. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Amniocentesis is used to detect fetal genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, by analyzing the amniotic fluid for genetic markers.
Choice B rationale
An empty bladder is required for the test only in late pregnancy to prevent bladder injury; however, in early pregnancy, a full bladder may be required to better visualize the uterus and amniotic fluid.
Choice C rationale
An x-ray is not typically used during the needle placement for amniocentesis. Ultrasound is the preferred method to guide the needle to avoid harm to the fetus and mother.
Choice D rationale
The test does not determine the volume of amniotic fluid; it is used primarily for genetic analysis, assessing fetal lung maturity, and diagnosing certain fetal infections.