During the third stage of labor, the nurse notes excessive bleeding. What should the nurse assess first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: During the third stage of labor, the correct answer is A: uterine tone. This is because assessing uterine tone is crucial in determining if the uterus is contracting effectively to control bleeding. If the uterus is not firm (boggy), it can lead to postpartum hemorrhage. Placental separation (B) occurs during the third stage, but assessing uterine tone takes precedence. Vaginal bleeding (C) is a symptom of potential postpartum hemorrhage, which can be caused by poor uterine tone. Cervical dilation (D) is not a priority in this situation as the focus should be on controlling bleeding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: fetal macrosomia. Fetal macrosomia, defined as a birth weight above 4 kg, is the most common cause of shoulder dystocia during delivery. This occurs when the baby's shoulders get stuck behind the mother's pelvic bone, leading to complications. Macrosomia is more likely in pregnancies with gestational diabetes, maternal obesity, and advanced maternal age, but the primary risk factor for shoulder dystocia is fetal macrosomia due to the large size of the baby. Maternal obesity, diabetes, and advanced age are secondary risk factors that can contribute to the likelihood of shoulder dystocia but are not the primary cause.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: fever. A fever in the first 24 hours after delivery is most concerning as it may indicate an infection, such as endometritis, which can lead to serious complications if not promptly treated. Postpartum fever is often the earliest sign of infection due to retained products of conception or ascending genital tract infection. Monitoring for fever is crucial as it can help prevent sepsis. Foul-smelling lochia (choice B) may suggest infection but is not as immediate a concern as fever. Increased blood pressure (choice C) and heart rate (choice D) may be normal physiological responses to delivery and are not specific indicators of infection in the immediate postpartum period.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: administer a uterotonic medication. This is the priority nursing action because a boggy uterus indicates uterine atony, which can lead to postpartum hemorrhage. Uterotonic medications help the uterus contract and reduce bleeding. Performing fundal massage (A) can be done after administering the medication to aid in uterine contraction. Administering an analgesic (C) or pain medication (D) is not the priority as the main concern is preventing excessive bleeding.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: prepare the person for a blood transfusion. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid indicates fetal distress, which can lead to hypoxia and potential blood loss in the laboring person. The priority action is to prepare for a potential blood transfusion to address any hemorrhage that may occur during delivery. This is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of both the laboring person and the baby. Incorrect options: A: Prepare for an emergency cesarean section - While meconium-stained amniotic fluid may indicate fetal distress, the priority is addressing potential maternal blood loss. B: Document the amount of meconium - Documenting is important but not the priority when the person's health is at risk. C: Notify the healthcare provider - While important, immediate action to address potential blood loss takes precedence over notifying the healthcare provider.