ATI RN
Complications of Postpartum Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse monitors his or her postpartum clients carefully because which of the following physiological changes occurs during the early postpartum period?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the early postpartum period, the correct physiological change that occurs is decreased blood volume (Option C). This is due to the body's natural response to the delivery of the placenta, which leads to a rapid decrease in blood volume as the uterus contracts and the mother's body begins to return to its pre-pregnancy state. This change is crucial for the body to regulate itself and prevent complications such as postpartum hemorrhage. Option A, decreased urinary output, is not a typical physiological change in the early postpartum period. In fact, postpartum diuresis, where the body eliminates excess fluid retained during pregnancy, often leads to increased urinary output. Option B, increased blood pressure, is also not a typical finding in the early postpartum period. Blood pressure usually normalizes or slightly decreases after childbirth due to the reduction in blood volume. Option D, increased estrogen levels, is not a characteristic change in the early postpartum period. Estrogen levels drop significantly after delivery, which is necessary for the initiation of lactation and the return of the menstrual cycle. Understanding these physiological changes in the postpartum period is crucial for nurses to provide appropriate care and early identification of any complications that may arise. Monitoring these changes helps ensure the well-being of both the mother and the newborn, making this knowledge essential in the field of obstetric pharmacology.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is evaluating the involution of a woman who is 3 days postpartum. Which of the following findings would the nurse evaluate as normal?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In postpartum care, evaluating the involution of the uterus is crucial to monitor the woman's recovery. Three days postpartum, the fundus should be around 2 cm below the umbilicus, as indicated by option C, with lochia rubra being the expected discharge color at this stage. This finding suggests that the uterus is contracting effectively to return to its pre-pregnancy size. Option A is incorrect because the fundus should be descending rather than ascending, and lochia rosa is not the expected color at this point. Option B is incorrect as the fundus should be lower, and lochia alba is not seen until later in the postpartum period. Option D is incorrect because the fundus being 3 cm below the umbilicus is beyond the expected level of involution at this stage, and lochia serosa is also not the typical discharge for day 3 postpartum. Understanding these normal postpartum findings is essential for nurses to provide appropriate care, identify deviations from the expected progression, and intervene promptly if needed to prevent complications. This knowledge ensures optimal recovery and well-being for postpartum women.
Question 3 of 5
The day after delivery, a woman, whose fundus is firm at 1 cm below the umbilicus and who has moderate lochia, tells the nurse that something must be wrong: 'All I do is go to the bathroom. ' Which of the following is an appropriate nursing response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the appropriate nursing response is option C: Inform the client that polyuria is normal. Postpartum diuresis, characterized by increased urinary frequency and volume, is a common physiological response to the body getting rid of excess fluid accumulated during pregnancy. It is crucial for nurses to educate postpartum women about this normal process to alleviate anxiety and provide reassurance. Option A (Catheterize the client per doctor's orders) is incorrect because catheterization is an invasive procedure that is not indicated in this situation unless there are specific medical reasons to do so. Option B (Measure the client's next voiding) is not the best response as it does not address the client's concerns or provide information about the normal postpartum experience of increased urinary frequency. Option D (Check the specific gravity of the next voiding) is unnecessary at this point as the client's symptoms can be explained by the normal postpartum diuresis, and specific gravity testing is not typically needed in this context. Educationally, understanding the normal physiological changes that occur postpartum is essential for nurses caring for postpartum women. It enables them to provide appropriate education, support, and reassurance to clients, promoting better outcomes and enhancing the overall postpartum experience.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who had a cesarean section under spinal anesthesia less than 2 hours ago. Which of the following nursing actions is appropriate at this time?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the appropriate nursing action is to have the client turn and deep breathe every 2 hours (Option C). This is crucial post-cesarean section under spinal anesthesia to prevent complications such as atelectasis and promote optimal lung expansion, preventing respiratory issues. Option A, elevating the head of the bed 60 degrees, is incorrect as it could increase the risk of hypotension due to the decreased venous return. Reporting the absence of bowel sounds to the physician (Option B) is not a priority at this early postoperative stage. Assessing for patellar hyperreflexia bilaterally (Option D) is not relevant in this immediate postoperative period and does not address the client's current needs. Educationally, it is essential for nurses to understand the specific postoperative care requirements for clients who have undergone cesarean sections under spinal anesthesia to promote optimal recovery and prevent complications. Encouraging turning and deep breathing helps maintain respiratory function and prevent postoperative respiratory issues.
Question 5 of 5
A woman had a cesarean section yesterday. She states that she needs to cough but that she is afraid to. Which of the following is the nurse 's best response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, option D is the best response for the nurse to provide to the woman who had a cesarean section and needs to cough but is afraid to. Supporting the incision with a pillow while coughing can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with coughing post-surgery. This response shows empathy and provides practical guidance to alleviate the woman's fear and discomfort. Option A is incorrect because simply acknowledging the pain without providing a solution does not address the woman's fear of coughing post-surgery. Option B is incorrect as checking lung fields may not directly address the woman's fear of coughing. Option C is incorrect as deep breathing, although beneficial, may not be as effective as coughing in clearing secretions and preventing complications like pneumonia. Educationally, this scenario highlights the importance of providing practical and patient-centered care to individuals post-surgery. Nurses need to not only address physical discomfort but also provide emotional support and guidance to help patients manage their fears and concerns effectively. Encouraging patients to cough while supporting their incision can be a simple yet effective intervention to promote healing and prevent complications.