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 choice because it provides the patient with a realistic expectation regarding the fate of stretch marks postpartum. It acknowledges that the marks will not completely vanish but will likely fade over time. This response conveys empathy while also educating the patient about the natural course of postpartum changes in the body. Option A) No, never is incorrect because it gives a definitive and incorrect answer, which may cause unnecessary distress to the patient. Option B) Yes, eventually is not the best choice as it oversimplifies the process and does not provide a clear timeline. Option D) They will continue to fade and should be gone by your 6-week checkup is incorrect because it sets a specific timeline that may not be realistic for all individuals, potentially leading to false expectations or disappointment. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to provide accurate and realistic information to patients, especially regarding physical changes during and after pregnancy. By offering empathetic and honest responses, nurses can support patients in understanding and accepting the changes in their bodies, promoting positive self-image and body confidence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The Fowler position aids in gravity drainage of lochia and infectious material, promoting healing and preventing complications. While comfort is important, the primary reason for this positioning is to facilitate drainage. Good hygiene practices help prevent the spread of infection to the urinary tract, but the Fowler position specifically aids in draining fluids from the reproductive organs.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Carboprost tromethamine (Hemabate) can potentially cause pulmonary edema as an adverse effect. Therefore, frequent assessment of breath sounds is crucial to detect this complication. Monitoring temperature, lochial flow, and fundal height will not provide information about potential adverse effects of the medication.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct action if a DVT is suspected is to place the patient on bed rest with the affected leg elevated to decrease swelling and promote venous return. Performing a Homans sign, dorsiflexing the foot, and palpating the leg are contraindicated as they may dislodge the DVT and result in a pulmonary embolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pressure in fetal circulation is greatest in the right atrium, allowing right-to-left shunting to bypass the lungs during intrauterine life. The pressure increases in the left atrium after birth. The liver does not filter blood during fetal life until the end. Blood bypasses the pulmonary vein during fetal life.