A postpartum client complains of perineal pain and discomfort. What nursing intervention should be prioritized to provide relief?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Administering ice packs to the perineum is the priority nursing intervention to provide relief for perineal pain and discomfort in a postpartum client. Ice packs help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the perineal area, which can help alleviate pain. It is a safe and effective method to provide immediate relief and promote comfort for the client. Other interventions such as encouraging ambulation, administering analgesics, and recommending warm sitz baths can also be beneficial, but in the initial management of perineal pain, ice packs are the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Providing education on techniques to improve latch and milk transfer should be prioritized to support successful breastfeeding in this situation. Newborns who are macrosomic (large for gestational age) may have difficulties latching due to their size and may require additional support to effectively breastfeed. By educating the postpartum client on proper latch techniques and milk transfer, the nurse can help optimize the breastfeeding experience for both the mother and baby. This intervention focuses on addressing the specific concerns related to the infant's size and aims to promote successful breastfeeding despite potential challenges. As such, recommending supplemental formula feedings, encouraging the client to avoid breastfeeding, or immediately referring to a lactation consultant may not directly address the immediate need for support in improving breastfeeding in this situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Assisting the client to a seated position on the toilet should be implemented first. This position promotes relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles and can help facilitate urinary elimination. It is a non-invasive and least intrusive intervention compared to performing intermittent catheterization or administering diuretic medication. Encouraging the client to drink plenty of fluids is important for promoting overall urinary function, but in this case, the priority is to aid the client in attempting to void first.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Persistent, severe abdominal pain, tenderness, and rigidity in a postpartum client can be indicative of serious conditions such as uterine rupture, hemorrhage, or infection, which require urgent medical attention. As a nurse, the priority action in this situation is to notify the healthcare provider immediately so that appropriate interventions can be initiated promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of the client. Administering analgesics or providing emotional support may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms and could potentially delay necessary medical treatment. Assisting the client to a comfortable position can be considered once the healthcare provider has been informed and appropriate assessments and interventions have been initiated.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presence of persistent, severe perineal pain along with ecchymosis and swelling of the perineum can indicate a complication such as a hematoma. A hematoma is a collection of blood that can occur in the perineal area postpartum, usually as a result of trauma during delivery. It is essential to notify the healthcare provider immediately to assess the situation, provide appropriate treatment, and prevent further complications. Applying ice packs or administering additional analgesic medication may not address the underlying issue of a possible hematoma, so prompt medical evaluation is crucial in this situation.