A nurse is assessing a postpartum person's pain level following a cesarean section. What is the most appropriate intervention for pain management?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: perform gentle uterine massage. This intervention is appropriate as it helps to stimulate uterine contractions, which can reduce postpartum bleeding and pain. Uterine massage also helps to promote involution of the uterus, aiding in the recovery process. Administering IV fluids (A) may be necessary but does not directly address pain management. Administering narcotics (B) may provide pain relief but should be used judiciously due to potential side effects. Performing gentle fundal massage (D) is not recommended as it may cause discomfort and is not as effective in managing post-cesarean pain compared to uterine massage.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of using forceps in delivery is to help expel the placenta. Forceps are not typically used to assist with fetal descent, provide immediate relief of shoulder dystocia, or avoid unnecessary surgical interventions. Forceps are specifically designed to aid in the safe and efficient removal of the placenta after the baby has been delivered. This minimizes the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and other complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: prepare the person for a cesarean section. In the scenario of vacuum extraction, if there are complications or the procedure is unsuccessful, the person may need to undergo an emergency cesarean section. By preparing the person for this possibility, the nurse ensures timely intervention if needed, prioritizing the safety of both the person and the baby. Monitoring fetal heart rate continuously (A) is important but not the most crucial action in this case. Monitoring for signs of uterine rupture (C) is not directly related to vacuum extraction. Assisting with positioning (D) is important but not as critical as preparing for a potential cesarean section.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: check for any contraindications. Before administering an epidural, it is crucial to assess for contraindications such as low platelet count, infection at the insertion site, or severe hypotension as these may increase the risk of complications. Administering an epidural bolus (A) without checking for contraindications can be dangerous. Performing a vaginal exam (C) is not necessary before an epidural and could increase the risk of infection. Ensuring continuous fetal monitoring (D) is important during labor but is not the most critical action before administering an epidural.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer tocolytics. Tocolytics help to inhibit uterine contractions and can be used to address irregular contractions during labor. This intervention helps to prevent preterm labor and promote fetal well-being. Administering analgesics (choice B) may help with pain management but does not address the underlying issue of irregular contractions. Monitoring fetal heart rate (choice C) is important but does not directly address the irregular contractions. Increasing oxytocin infusion (choice D) would worsen the situation by further stimulating contractions. Therefore, administering tocolytics is the priority intervention to address irregular contractions during labor.