ATI RN
Postpartum Hormonal Changes Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is providing care to a patient who delivered a 3525-g infant 14 hours ago. The nurse palpates the fundus of the uterus as firm and at the umbilicus. What is the nurse’s priority action related to this finding?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Document the finding in the patient’s chart. The fundus being firm and at the umbilicus indicates normal involution after delivery. Documenting this finding is essential for accurate assessment and continuity of care. Informing the health care provider (choice A) is not necessary as the finding is normal. Encouraging the patient to urinate (choice B) is important for postpartum care but not the priority in this situation. Massaging the uterus to expel clots (choice C) is not indicated as the fundus is already firm, indicating proper contraction.
Question 2 of 5
The postpartum patient who continually repeats the story of her labor, birth, and recovery experiences is performing which of the following tasks?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Making the birth experience "real." This choice aligns with the concept of emotional processing and integration in the postpartum period. By continually repeating her birth story, the patient is trying to make sense of and come to terms with her experience, making it feel more "real" to her. This process helps her emotionally process the events and transitions she has gone through during labor and birth. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Accepting her response to labor and birth - This choice focuses more on the patient's emotional response rather than the act of repeating the story. C: Providing others with her knowledge of events - This choice is more about sharing information rather than the internal emotional processing the patient is likely engaging in. D: Taking hold of the events leading to her labor and birth - This choice suggests a sense of control over the events, which may not necessarily be the primary motivation behind the patient's behavior.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse observes a patient on her first postpartum day sitting in bed while her newborn lies awake in the bassinet. Which action is most appropriate for the nurse to take at this time?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Explain "taking-in" to the woman. This action allows the nurse to educate the woman on the normal postpartum adjustment period. By explaining "taking-in," the nurse helps the woman understand her current need for rest and reflection without feeling guilty about not immediately attending to her newborn. This approach promotes bonding by reducing anxiety and enhancing the mother's confidence in her abilities. Summary of other choices: A: Hand the baby to the woman - This choice may not address the woman's emotional needs and understanding of her current state. C: Offer to hand the baby to the woman - While offering is a good gesture, it may not address the underlying need for education and reassurance. D: No action, because this situation is perfectly acceptable - Ignoring the opportunity to provide guidance and support may lead to confusion and insecurity for the woman.
Question 4 of 5
During which phase of maternal adjustment will the mother relinquish the baby of her fantasies and accept the real baby?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Letting-go. During this phase, the mother transitions from idealized fantasies about her baby to accepting the reality of the infant. She lets go of unrealistic expectations and embraces the actual characteristics of her child. Choice B, Taking-in, refers to the mother focusing on her own needs post-birth. Choice C, Taking-on, involves the mother identifying with her new role. Choice D, Taking-hold, pertains to the mother forming a strong bond with the baby. However, none of these phases specifically address the process of relinquishing idealized fantasies and accepting the real baby like the Letting-go phase does.
Question 5 of 5
To promote bonding and attachment immediately after birth, which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because assuming an en face position (face-to-face) with the newborn promotes bonding and attachment by facilitating eye contact, skin-to-skin contact, and mutual recognition between the mother and baby. This physical closeness immediately after birth helps establish a strong emotional connection. A: Assisting with feeding is important but does not specifically address bonding and attachment immediately after birth. B: Allowing quiet time is beneficial but may not actively promote bonding and attachment. C: Teaching about bonding and attachment is valuable but does not directly facilitate the immediate connection between mother and baby.