ATI RN
Complication Postpartum Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse notices the person with a PPH looks pale and their capillary refill is >3 seconds. What intervention can the nurse initiate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), the correct intervention for a person exhibiting pallor and delayed capillary refill (>3 seconds) is to start an IV bolus (Option D). This intervention is crucial because it helps rapidly replace lost intravascular volume and restore adequate perfusion to vital organs. By administering IV fluids, the nurse can help stabilize the person's condition and prevent further complications. Option A, wrapping the person in a warm blanket, is incorrect as it does not address the underlying issue of hypovolemia and impaired perfusion. Option B, putting a pulse oximeter on the patient's finger, may provide information about oxygen saturation but is not the priority in a situation where immediate fluid resuscitation is required. Option C, sitting the person up at 90 degrees, is contraindicated in cases of PPH as it can worsen hypoperfusion by reducing venous return to the heart. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the significance of prompt recognition and intervention in managing complications like PPH. Timely administration of IV fluids can be life-saving in such situations and should be a priority in the care of individuals experiencing postpartum hemorrhage.
Question 2 of 5
What is a symptom of engorgement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the postpartum period, engorgement is a common complication due to an overabundance of milk in the breasts. The correct symptom of engorgement is a shiny, hard breast (Option B). This occurs because the breasts become swollen with excess milk, leading to a shiny appearance and a firm or hard feel to the touch. Option A, protuberant nipples, is not a specific symptom of engorgement but can occur in various stages of breastfeeding. Option C, insufficient milk production, is the opposite of engorgement and indicates a lack of milk rather than an excess. Option D, soft, lumpy breast, is also incorrect as engorged breasts are typically hard and tense, not soft and lumpy. Educationally, understanding the symptoms of engorgement is crucial for healthcare providers working with postpartum women. Recognizing engorgement allows for prompt intervention, such as proper breastfeeding techniques, warm compresses, and gentle massage to relieve discomfort and prevent complications like mastitis. Engaging in continuous education on postpartum complications empowers healthcare professionals to provide optimal care and support to new mothers during this critical period.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse educates the person with a newborn in the NICU. What guidance does the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and postpartum care, the correct answer is C) Skin-to-skin contact helps both baby and breast-feeding person. This guidance is crucial for the person with a newborn in the NICU as it promotes bonding, regulates the baby's temperature and heart rate, supports breastfeeding initiation, and enhances maternal-infant attachment. Skin-to-skin contact has been shown to improve breastfeeding outcomes, increase milk production, and stabilize the baby's vital signs. Option A) Breast milk is not good for a premature baby is incorrect as breast milk is highly beneficial for premature infants due to its nutritional composition and immune-boosting properties. Option B) Premature babies breast-feed easily is incorrect as premature infants may face challenges with breastfeeding due to their immature sucking reflexes and coordination. Option D) A bottle is recommended for all feedings is incorrect as bottle feeding may interfere with establishing successful breastfeeding, especially for premature infants who benefit greatly from breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact in the NICU setting. Educationally, understanding the importance of skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding for premature infants is essential for healthcare providers caring for neonates in the NICU. Providing accurate information and support to parents can positively impact the health outcomes of these vulnerable infants.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse educates the person recovering from a cesarean birth on how to care for the incision. What education is discussed?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In postpartum care after a cesarean birth, educating the individual on incision care is crucial to prevent complications. Option A, "Scrub the incision well twice daily," is the correct choice. This answer emphasizes the importance of gentle cleansing to prevent infection while promoting healing. Option B, "Remove the dressing the day after birth," is incorrect as dressings are usually removed a few days after surgery to allow for proper healing. Premature removal can increase the risk of infection. Option C, "Staples will be removed the day after birth," is incorrect as staples are typically removed around 5 to 7 days post-surgery, not the day after. Option D, "Vertical incisions heal faster with less pain," is incorrect as the healing time and pain perception can vary based on several factors, not solely on the incision type. Educationally, it is important to stress the significance of following healthcare provider instructions regarding incision care to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. Patients should be advised to avoid scrubbing the incision and instead gently clean it as per healthcare provider recommendations.
Question 5 of 5
What is a risk factor for PPD?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of postpartum depression (PPD), a traumatic birth experience is a significant risk factor. This is because women who experience traumatic births, such as emergency cesarean sections, forceps deliveries, or other complications, are more likely to develop PPD due to the emotional distress and psychological impact of the experience. Traumatic births can lead to feelings of helplessness, fear, and loss of control, which are all associated with an increased risk of PPD. Regarding the other options: - A) Vaginal birth: While vaginal birth itself is not a risk factor for PPD, the experience of a traumatic vaginal birth could contribute to the development of PPD. - B) Family support: While having strong family support is important for overall well-being postpartum, it is not a direct risk factor for PPD. - D) Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding has been shown to have a protective effect against PPD due to the hormonal and bonding benefits it provides, so it is not a risk factor for PPD. Understanding these risk factors is crucial for healthcare providers to identify women at higher risk for PPD and provide appropriate support and interventions. Educating healthcare professionals about these factors can help improve early detection and management of PPD, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both mothers and their babies.