ATI RN
Postpartum Hormonal Changes Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assessing a 1-day postpartum client who had a spontaneous vaginal delivery over an intact perineum. The fundus is firm at the umbilicus, lochia moderate, and perineum edematous. One hour after receiving ibuprofen 600 mg po, the client is complaining of perineal pain at level 9 on a 10-point scale. Based on this information, which of the following is an appropriate conclusion for the nurse to make about the client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "She may have a hidden laceration," is the most appropriate conclusion for the nurse to make about the client. This is because despite the client having a spontaneous vaginal delivery over an intact perineum, the persistence of severe perineal pain (level 9 on a 10-point scale) one hour after taking ibuprofen could indicate a hidden laceration that was not initially detected during the assessment. Option A, "She should be assessed by her doctor," could be considered less urgent compared to the potential of a hidden laceration causing the severe pain. Option B, "She should have a sitz bath," might provide some relief but does not address the underlying cause of the severe pain. Option D, "She needs a narcotic analgesic," is not the first-line treatment for postpartum perineal pain and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary due to potential side effects and risks. From an educational perspective, it is crucial for nurses to understand the significance of persistent severe pain postpartum, especially in the context of perineal discomfort. This case highlights the importance of thorough assessment, including the possibility of hidden lacerations, to ensure appropriate and timely interventions for postpartum clients. Early detection and management of complications can significantly impact the client's recovery and overall postpartum experience.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is discussing the neonatal blood screening test with a new mother. The nurse knows that the teaching was successful when the mother states that the test screens for the presence in the newborn of which of the following diseases? Select one that doesn't apply
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, option D, "Cerebral palsy," is the correct answer for the neonatal blood screening test. This test is designed to screen for metabolic and genetic disorders present in newborns that may not be apparent at birth. Cerebral palsy is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects movement and muscle coordination, and it is not detected through a blood screening test. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they are conditions that can be detected through neonatal blood screening tests. Hypothyroidism, sickle cell disease, and galactosemia are all metabolic disorders that can be identified early through such screening tests, allowing for prompt intervention and management to prevent complications and promote the baby's well-being. Educationally, understanding the purpose of neonatal blood screening tests is crucial for new parents to grasp the importance of early detection and intervention in managing potential health conditions in their newborns. By explaining the rationale behind each answer choice, nurses can enhance parental knowledge and empower them to be proactive in their child's healthcare from the very beginning.
Question 3 of 5
A full-term newborn was just born. Which nursing intervention is important for the nurse to perform first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the immediate postpartum period, assessing the Apgar score is crucial as it provides a quick snapshot of the newborn's overall condition and helps determine if any immediate interventions are needed. The Apgar score evaluates the baby's heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color at one minute and five minutes after birth. This quick assessment guides the nurse in determining the need for resuscitative measures or additional monitoring. Removing wet blankets (option A) is important for maintaining the newborn's body temperature but is not as time-sensitive as assessing the Apgar score. Inserting eye prophylaxis (option C) and eliciting the Moro reflex (option D) are important assessments but are not the priority immediately after birth. In an educational context, understanding the significance of the Apgar score and its role in the initial assessment of newborns is essential for nurses and other healthcare providers working in labor and delivery or postpartum units. This knowledge ensures that appropriate care is provided promptly, promoting the well-being of the newborn and facilitating early interventions if necessary.
Question 4 of 5
A mother asks the nurse to tell her about the responsiveness of neonates at birth. Which of the following answers is appropriate? Select one that doesn't apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Babies have a poorly developed sense of smell until they are 2 months old. This is the appropriate response because it accurately reflects the neonate's sensory development at birth. At birth, babies have a limited sense of smell which gradually improves over the first few months of life. This information is crucial for the mother to understand in order to manage her expectations regarding her baby's responses to smells. Option B is incorrect because babies do not respond equally well to all tastes; they have a preference for sweet tastes like breast milk. Option C, while partially true about babies preferring sweet tastes, does not fully address the question about neonatal responsiveness. Option D is incorrect as it focuses on touch and cuddling rather than the specific sensory aspect of smell being asked about. In an educational context, understanding neonatal sensory development is important for parents as it helps them comprehend their baby's behaviors and needs. By knowing that babies have a poorly developed sense of smell initially, parents can adjust their interactions and caregiving practices accordingly, leading to better bonding and care for the newborn.
Question 5 of 5
A 2-day-old breastfeeding baby born via normal spontaneous vaginal delivery has just been weighed in the newborn nursery. The nurse determines that the baby has lost 3.5% of the birth weight. Which of the following nursing actions is appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the postpartum period, it is normal for newborns to experience some weight loss before they begin to gain weight steadily. A weight loss of up to 7-10% is considered normal for breastfed infants. This weight loss is mainly due to the loss of excess fluid and meconium in the baby's system. In this scenario, the appropriate nursing action is to do nothing because a weight loss of 3.5% is within the normal range for a breastfed newborn. It is crucial to educate parents about expected newborn weight fluctuations to prevent unnecessary anxiety. It is also important to support and encourage breastfeeding, as it has numerous benefits for both the baby and the mother. Option B is incorrect because notifying the neonatologist of a normal weight loss can cause unnecessary alarm and intervention. Option C is incorrect as there is no need to switch to bottle feeding based on a normal weight loss percentage. Option D is also incorrect because assessing for hypoglycemia is not indicated in this scenario where the weight loss is within normal limits. Educationally, it is essential for healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable about normal newborn weight fluctuations, as this knowledge guides appropriate care and counseling for parents. Understanding the physiology of newborns helps in providing evidence-based care and support for families during the postpartum period. By explaining these concepts to parents, nurses can alleviate concerns and promote a positive breastfeeding experience.