During ambulation to the bathroom, a postpartum client experiences a gush of dark red blood that soon stops.On data collection, a nurse finds the uterus to be firm, midline, and at the level of the umbilicus.Which of the following findings should the nurse interpret this data as being?
An indication of a cervical or perineal laceration.
Abnormally excessive lochia rubra flow.
A normal postural discharge of lochia.
Evidence of a possible vaginal hematoma.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A cervical or perineal laceration would typically result in continuous bleeding rather than a gush that stops. The uterus would also not be firm and midline if there were a significant laceration.
Choice B rationale
Abnormally excessive lochia rubra flow would be continuous and not stop after a gush. The uterus being firm and midline indicates that the bleeding is not excessive.
Choice C rationale
A normal postural discharge of lochia occurs when pooled blood in the vagina is expelled upon standing or changing position. This is common and expected in the postpartum period.
Choice D rationale
A vaginal hematoma would present with localized pain and swelling, and the bleeding would not stop suddenly. The uterus being firm and midline also indicates that a hematoma is unlikely.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Sore nipples with cracks and fissures can indicate an infection or improper breastfeeding technique, requiring medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Scant nonodorous white vaginal discharge is normal postpartum and does not require contacting the provider.
Choice C rationale
Uterine cramping during breastfeeding is a normal physiological response due to oxytocin release.
Choice D rationale
Decreased response with sexual activity can be normal postpartum and does not necessarily require immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Inserting a urinary catheter is not the first action to take when the fundus is displaced to the right of midline. The displacement is often due to a full bladder, and the client should be encouraged to void first.
Choice B rationale
Massaging the fundus is appropriate if the uterus is boggy, but in this case, the fundus is firm. The displacement is likely due to a full bladder.
Choice C rationale
Having the client urinate is the correct action. A full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly, which can lead to postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice D rationale
Administering analgesia is not relevant to the issue of a displaced fundus. The priority is to address the cause of the displacement, which is likely a full bladder.