A woman gave birth to a healthy infant boy 5 days ago. What type of lochia does the nurse expect to find when evaluating this client?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the postpartum period, lochia is the vaginal discharge that consists of blood, tissue, and mucus as the uterus sheds its lining after childbirth. The correct answer is D) Lochia serosa. Lochia serosa typically appears around days 4-10 postpartum. It is pink to brownish in color and contains serous exudate and leukocytes, indicating a transition from the initial heavy bleeding of Lochia rubra to the final stage of Lochia alba. Option A) Lochia rubra is the initial discharge after childbirth, consisting of mostly blood and tissue. It is expected in the first 3-4 days postpartum. Option B) Lochia sangra is not a recognized term in the context of postpartum lochia. Option C) Lochia alba is the final stage of lochia, occurring around 10-14 days postpartum. It is yellow to white in color and primarily consists of mucus and leukocytes. Understanding the characteristics and timeline of postpartum lochia is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for postpartum women. It helps in assessing the normal progression of healing after childbirth and identifying any abnormal signs that may indicate complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) The first menstrual flow after childbirth usually is heavier than normal. This statement accurately reflects the physiological changes that occur in a woman's body postpartum. After giving birth, the uterine lining is thicker than usual, leading to a heavier first menstrual flow. Option A is incorrect because the resumption of menstruation is typically delayed in women who breastfeed due to the suppression of ovulation caused by breastfeeding hormones. Therefore, the statement that 75% of non-breastfeeding women resume menstruating within a month is inaccurate. Option B is incorrect because ovulation is actually delayed in breastfeeding women due to the same hormonal effect that suppresses menstruation. This delay in ovulation is a natural contraceptive method known as lactational amenorrhea. Option C is incorrect because contraception considerations should not be postponed until after the puerperium. Women can ovulate as early as 25 days postpartum, even before the resumption of menstruation. Therefore, discussing contraception options early in the postpartum period is crucial to prevent unintended pregnancies. Understanding postpartum ovary function is essential for healthcare providers working in maternal health. By knowing the accurate information about ovulation and menstruation postpartum, they can provide appropriate guidance on family planning and postpartum care to women.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is option B: "My first menstrual cycle will be heavier than normal and will return to my prepregnant volume within three or four cycles." This statement indicates an understanding of postpartum menstrual changes. Option A is incorrect because menstrual cycles typically return to normal gradually rather than starting lighter and getting heavier each month. Option C is incorrect as most women resume menstruation within a few months postpartum, not after a 6-month gap. Option D is incorrect as it states the first cycle will be heavier than normal and then light for several months, which is not the typical pattern. In an educational context, understanding postpartum changes in menstrual activity is crucial for maternal health. Educating women about these normal variations can alleviate anxiety and help them make informed decisions about contraception and overall reproductive health post-delivery. It also highlights the importance of regular postpartum follow-up care to monitor these changes and address any concerns that may arise.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Recognize that this count is an acceptable range at this point postpartum. In the immediate postpartum period, it is common for the white blood cell (WBC) count to elevate due to the stress of labor and delivery. A WBC count of 25,000/mm³ on the second postpartum day is within the expected range as the body responds to the recent physiological changes. This elevation is a normal part of the postpartum healing process and does not necessarily indicate infection. Option A) Immediately inform the health care provider is incorrect because an elevated WBC count in the absence of other signs or symptoms of infection does not warrant immediate notification. Option B) Having the laboratory draw blood for reanalysis is unnecessary at this point since the elevated WBC count is a typical finding in the postpartum period. Option D) Immediately begin antibiotic therapy is not warranted without further assessment or evidence of infection. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and other complications. Understanding the normal physiological changes in the postpartum period is crucial for nurses caring for postpartum clients. It is important to differentiate between expected findings and those that require further investigation or intervention to provide optimal care for the client and prevent unnecessary interventions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C) Breast cancer. Tamoxifen is a medication commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer, particularly in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cases. It works by blocking the estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells, thereby inhibiting their growth and spread. This medication is a cornerstone in the treatment of hormone-sensitive breast cancer and is often prescribed to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Option A) Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is incorrect because tamoxifen is not indicated for the treatment of this condition. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, and tamoxifen is not effective in treating it. Option B) Endometriosis is also incorrect. While endometriosis is a condition that involves the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, tamoxifen is not a standard treatment for this condition. Option D) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not treated with tamoxifen. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age, leading to irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. Tamoxifen's mechanism of action is not designed to address the underlying hormonal imbalances seen in PCOS. Understanding the uses of medications like tamoxifen is crucial for healthcare professionals working in maternal health. By knowing the correct indications and contraindications of medications, nurses can provide safe and effective care to their clients, ensuring positive health outcomes.