The nurse working in a women’s clinic admits a patient who is almost 6 weeks postpartum and describes a yellow-white vaginal drainage.The nurse interprets this as indicating what?
Fungal infection.
Expected lochia progression.
Retained placenta.
Bacterial infection.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Fungal infections typically present with itching, redness, and a thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese. The yellow-white vaginal drainage described is more consistent with lochia alba, the final stage of lochia, which is a normal postpartum discharge.
Choice B rationale
Lochia alba is the final stage of lochia, occurring around 10 to 14 days postpartum and lasting up to six weeks. It is characterized by a yellowish-white discharge, indicating the end of the postpartum bleeding process.
Choice C rationale
Retained placenta can cause prolonged bleeding and infection, but it is usually associated with heavy bleeding and not a yellow-white discharge. The presence of lochia alba suggests normal postpartum progression.
Choice D rationale
Bacterial infections often present with a foul-smelling discharge, pain, and fever. The yellow-white discharge described is more indicative of lochia alba, a normal postpartum occurrence.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Obtaining a prescription for an antibiotic is not the first recommendation for a client who is 3 days postpartum and breastfeeding with hard and warm breasts. Antibiotics are typically prescribed if there is a confirmed infection, such as mastitis, which is characterized by symptoms like fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. In this case, the client is experiencing normal postpartum breast engorgement, which does not require antibiotics.
Choice B rationale
Expressing milk from both breasts is the correct recommendation. Breast engorgement is common in the early postpartum period as the milk comes in. Expressing milk, either by breastfeeding frequently or using a breast pump, helps to relieve the fullness, reduce discomfort, and maintain milk production.
Choice C rationale
Wearing a nipple shield is not recommended for breast engorgement. Nipple shields are typically used for issues like latch difficulties or sore nipples, not for relieving engorgement. Using a nipple shield without proper guidance can potentially interfere with milk transfer and breastfeeding success.
Choice D rationale
Applying a heating pad to the breasts is not recommended for engorgement. Heat can increase blood flow and exacerbate swelling. Instead, cold compresses or cold cabbage leaves are often recommended to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While sharing personal experiences can sometimes be comforting, it may not always be appropriate or helpful in a professional setting. The focus should be on the patient’s needs and feelings.
Choice B rationale
Calling for a chaplain can be supportive, but it is important to first offer the parents the opportunity to hold their baby and spend time with them, which can be an important part of the grieving process.
Choice C rationale
Allowing the parents to hold their baby for as long as they want provides them with the opportunity to say goodbye and can be a crucial part of the grieving process. It helps them to acknowledge their loss and begin to process their emotions.
Choice D rationale
Telling the parents that the loss is for the best is not supportive and can be hurtful. It is important to validate their feelings and provide compassionate care during this difficult time.