A nurse is assessing a client who is 3 days postpartum and is breastfeeding. The nurse notes that the fundus is three fingerbreadths below the umbilicus, lochia rubra is moderate, and the breasts are hard and warm to palpation. Which of the following interpretations of these findings should the nurse make?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - Additional interventions are not indicated at this time. Rationale: 1. Fundus location: Three fingerbreadths below the umbilicus is within normal range for 3 days postpartum. 2. Lochia rubra: Moderate lochia rubra is expected at this stage postpartum. 3. Breasts: Hard and warm breasts are indicative of engorgement, a common issue in breastfeeding mothers. Summary: A: Early indications of mastitis would include redness, warmth, and tenderness in the breasts, along with flu-like symptoms. C: Application of a heating pad to the breasts can worsen engorgement and increase the risk of mastitis. D: Removing a nursing bra may offer some relief for engorgement, but it is not the priority intervention at this time.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the spot of blood on the diaper of a 4-day old female newborn is a normal finding due to the withdrawal of maternal hormones. During pregnancy, the baby is exposed to maternal hormones, and after birth, the sudden decrease in these hormones can cause a temporary withdrawal bleeding. This is known as pseudomenstruation and is common in newborn girls. It is important for the nurse to reassure the mother that this is a normal and harmless occurrence. Choice A is incorrect because urinary infection is not typically the cause of blood on the diaper in a newborn. Choice B is incorrect because jaundice does not typically present with blood in the diaper. Choice D is incorrect because while breastfeeding is important for the baby's immune system, it is not directly related to the presence of blood on the diaper in this case.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Poor sucking reflex. Pre-term neonates often have immature sucking reflexes, which can lead to difficulty in feeding and obtaining adequate nutrition. This can result in a potential nutritional problem. Option B is incorrect because pre-term neonates actually have an increased metabolic rate to support their growth and development. Option C is incorrect as pre-term neonates have increased caloric requirements due to their rapid growth. Option D is incorrect as pre-term neonates typically have decreased absorption of nutrients due to an immature gastrointestinal system.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prepare for immediate cesarean delivery. Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, which can lead to life-threatening bleeding during labor. Immediate cesarean delivery is the priority to prevent maternal and fetal complications. Monitoring for contractions (A) is important but not the priority. Monitoring for fetal distress (C) is crucial but not the immediate intervention. Encouraging bed rest (D) may be recommended but is not the priority intervention in placenta previa.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Place the newborn under a radiant warmer. This method is the most effective in preventing heat loss in a newborn as radiant warmers provide a consistent heat source to maintain the newborn's body temperature. This is crucial during the first hour of life when newborns are at a higher risk of hypothermia. Choice B is not as effective as using a radiant warmer as it may not provide enough warmth to prevent heat loss. Choice C, placing the newborn in a skin-to-skin position with the mother, is beneficial for bonding and regulating the newborn's temperature in the long term but may not be as effective as a radiant warmer in the immediate post-birth period. Choice D, keeping the newborn wrapped in a wet blanket, is incorrect as wet blankets can further contribute to heat loss through evaporative cooling. In summary, using a radiant warmer is the best option for preventing heat loss in a newborn during the critical first hour of life.