ATI RN
Postpartum Body Changes Questions
Question 1 of 5
A postpartum patient asks, “Will these stretch marks ever go away?” Which is the nurse’s best response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: “They will fade to silvery lines but won’t disappear completely.” This response is the best because it provides a realistic expectation to the patient. Stretch marks may lighten over time but typically do not completely disappear. Choice A is incorrect as it provides a definitive and discouraging answer. Choice B is vague and does not offer a clear timeframe. Choice D is incorrect as it gives an overly optimistic timeline that may not be realistic for most individuals. Overall, choice C is the most accurate and supportive response for the patient's query.
Question 2 of 5
To assess fundal contraction 6 hours after cesarean birth, which technique should the nurse utilize?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Gently palpating the fundus is the appropriate technique after cesarean birth to assess fundal contraction. This technique is recommended to prevent causing discomfort or dislodging the uterus. Assessing lochial flow (A) does not directly evaluate fundal contraction. Palpating forcefully through the abdominal dressing (B) can be painful and may not provide an accurate assessment. Placing hands on both sides of the abdomen and pressing downward (C) is not a recommended technique as it can potentially cause uterine displacement.
Question 3 of 5
The postpartum nurse has completed discharge teaching for a patient being discharged after an uncomplicated vaginal birth. Which statement by the patient indicates that further teaching is necessary?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the patient's statement about not needing birth control if breastfeeding and supplementing with formula is incorrect. Breastfeeding is not a reliable form of birth control and additional contraception is necessary to prevent unintended pregnancy. Explanation: 1. Breastfeeding alone is not a foolproof method of contraception. 2. The combination of breastfeeding and formula feeding does not guarantee contraception. 3. Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) is only effective if specific criteria are met. 4. The patient's misconception about not needing birth control while breastfeeding and supplementing with formula puts her at risk of unintended pregnancy. Summary: A: Correct statement about the timing of bowel movements postpartum. C: Incorrect statement about the normal pattern of bowel elimination postpartum. D: Correct statement about the need for birth control if not breastfeeding.
Question 4 of 5
To facilitate adequate urinary elimination during the postpartum period, the nurse should incorporate which intervention into the plan of care?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, teaching the patient to perform pelvic floor exercises to combat potential stress incontinence. This intervention strengthens pelvic floor muscles, aiding in bladder control postpartum. Choice A is incorrect as carbonated beverages can irritate the bladder. Choice B is incorrect as postpartum diuresis increases fluid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration. Choice C is incorrect as limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and hinder urinary elimination.
Question 5 of 5
Which assessment finding 24 hours after vaginal birth would indicate a need for further intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because a saturated pad over a 2-hour period 24 hours after vaginal birth could indicate postpartum hemorrhage, a serious complication requiring immediate intervention. Excessive bleeding can lead to hypovolemic shock and endanger the mother's life. Monitoring and managing postpartum bleeding is crucial to prevent complications. A: Pain level of 5 is subjective and may vary among individuals. It does not necessarily indicate a need for immediate intervention. C: Urinary output of 500 mL in one voiding is within the normal range for postpartum women and does not suggest an immediate need for intervention. D: Uterine fundus 2 cm above the umbilicus is within the expected range for 24 hours postpartum and does not indicate a need for immediate intervention.