ATI RN
Complication Postpartum Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse works in a labor and delivery facility with new protocols for estimating postpartum blood loss. Which method for estimating blood loss is implemented in the delivery room?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because collecting blood in calibrated, under-buttocks drapes for vaginal birth allows for a more accurate estimation of postpartum blood loss. This method provides a quantitative measurement, unlike the subjective method in option A. Option C does not provide a direct measurement of blood loss and may not be accurate. Option D relies on the health care provider's estimate, which may not always be precise or consistent. By using calibrated drapes, the nurse can easily measure and monitor blood loss, ensuring better patient care and outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is assisting the primary care provider with the third stage of a vaginal delivery. The patient is multiparous, experienced a precipitous birth, and has a history of hypertension. Which medical prescription does the nurse anticipate for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Carboprost-tromethamine. In the given scenario, the patient is multiparous, had a precipitous birth, and has a history of hypertension. Carboprost-tromethamine is typically administered in the third stage of labor to manage postpartum hemorrhage, which is a potential complication in this case due to the patient's history of hypertension. Methylergonovine (choice A) is contraindicated in patients with hypertension due to its vasoconstrictive effects. Fresh frozen plasma (choice B) is not typically indicated for postpartum hemorrhage. Magnesium sulfate (choice D) is commonly used for pre-eclampsia/eclampsia but not specifically for postpartum hemorrhage in this scenario.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is providing care for a patient who is 8 hours postpartum after a vaginal delivery. The patient reports severe perineal pain unaffected by pain medication. The nurse notices a 4 cm area of discoloration on the labia that is tender to the touch. Which action does the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Contact the primary care provider for further evaluation. The patient's symptoms of severe perineal pain, discoloration on the labia, and tenderness indicate a potential complication such as hematoma or infection. Contacting the primary care provider is essential for prompt assessment and appropriate intervention to prevent further complications. Continuing to apply ice (A) may not address the underlying issue and could potentially worsen the condition. Monitoring vital signs (B) is important but may not provide direct insight into the specific problem. Relieving pressure by placing the patient in a side-lying position (D) is not the priority in this situation and may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Question 4 of 5
The lactation nurse takes a phone call from a mother who is breastfeeding her 2-month-old infant. The mother reports an area of redness and warmth on the breast and a painful burning sensation when breastfeeding. Which statement by the nurse is correct if mastitis is suspected?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Continuing to breastfeed will help clear up the condition. Rationale: 1. Continuing to breastfeed helps to empty the breast and prevent milk stasis, which can worsen mastitis. 2. Breastfeeding helps maintain milk production and prevents engorgement, which can exacerbate the infection. 3. Breast milk has antibacterial properties that can help fight the infection. 4. Stopping breastfeeding abruptly can lead to more serious complications like abscess formation. Summary: A: Incorrect. Stopping breastfeeding abruptly can lead to complications and does not address the underlying infection. B: Incorrect. Pumping and throwing away milk does not address the underlying infection and can lead to decreased milk supply. C: Incorrect. Mastitis is not caused by the baby, and antibiotics are not always necessary if managed promptly with breastfeeding and self-care.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse on a postpartum unit observes a patient who delivered 2 days ago. The nurse notices extreme agitation and depressed mood. The patient states, “I think that my baby is deformed inside and we have to fix him.” Which risk factor is most strongly related to possible postpartum psychosis (PPP)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, personal history of bipolar disorder. Postpartum psychosis is a severe mental health condition that can occur in women with a history of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a major risk factor for developing postpartum psychosis due to the hormonal changes and stress of childbirth. The extreme agitation, depressed mood, and delusional thoughts exhibited by the patient in the scenario are indicative of postpartum psychosis. Choice A, separation from the baby’s father, is not a strong risk factor for postpartum psychosis. Choice C, prolonged labor resulting in cesarean, is associated with physical complications but not necessarily with postpartum psychosis. Choice D, loss of the first child from a heart defect, is a traumatic event but is not directly linked to the development of postpartum psychosis.