What is the appropriate intervention for a mother with a third-degree perineal tear postpartum?

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Maternal Newborn ATI Proctored Exam 2023 Questions

Question 1 of 5

What is the appropriate intervention for a mother with a third-degree perineal tear postpartum?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Encourage the mother to avoid heavy lifting. After a third-degree perineal tear, it is crucial to prevent strain on the perineum to promote healing and prevent complications like infection or further tearing. Heavy lifting can increase pressure on the perineum, leading to delayed healing. Ice packs (A) may help reduce swelling initially but do not address the underlying issue. Stool softeners (B) can help prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements but do not directly impact perineal tear healing. Perineal exercises (D) are beneficial for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles in general but should be introduced gradually and not immediately postpartum with a severe tear.

Question 2 of 5

Which assessment finding indicates uterine rupture?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Contractions abruptly stop during labor. Uterine rupture is a serious obstetric emergency where the integrity of the uterus is compromised, leading to potential life-threatening complications for both the mother and the fetus. When the uterus ruptures, contractions may abruptly stop due to the loss of muscle tone and coordination. This sudden cessation of contractions is a red flag indicating uterine rupture. Choice B, decreased maternal heart rate, is not typically associated with uterine rupture. Choice C, gradual onset of mild pain during contractions, is more indicative of a normal labor process rather than uterine rupture. Choice D, uterus becomes firm between contractions, is not a specific sign of uterine rupture as it can occur in normal labor as well.

Question 3 of 5

A patient has just been admitted to labor and delivery. She is having mild contractions lasting 30 seconds every 15 minutes. The patient wants to have a mediation free birth. When discussing medication alternatives, the nurse should be sure the patient understands that:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because maternal pain and stress can lead to increased levels of stress hormones, which can negatively affect the fetus. By providing a small amount of analgesia, the patient can experience relief from pain and stress without compromising the well-being of the fetus. Option B is incorrect because it disregards the potential benefits of providing some pain relief to the patient while still respecting her desire for a medication-free birth. Option C is incorrect because while medication may provide some rest and alleviate fatigue, the primary concern in this scenario is the impact on the fetus rather than the patient's comfort. Option D is incorrect because the main focus should be on ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the fetus, rather than solely on the mother's enjoyment of the birth experience.

Question 4 of 5

A nurse is checking postpartum orders, the doctor prescribed bed rest for 6-12 h. The nurse knows this is an appropriate order if the patient had which type of anesthesia?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Epidural. The rationale for this is that epidural anesthesia is a regional anesthesia that numbs the lower half of the body while allowing the patient to remain conscious. Therefore, prescribing bed rest for 6-12 hours after receiving an epidural is appropriate to ensure the anesthesia wears off gradually and the patient does not experience any complications while regaining sensation and mobility. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Spinal anesthesia also numbs the lower half of the body, but it typically wears off faster than an epidural, so bed rest may not be necessary for as long. B: Pudendal anesthesia is specific to numbing the perineum area and does not affect mobility in the same way as epidural anesthesia. D: General anesthesia does not target a specific area of the body and does not require bed rest for 6-12 hours postpartum.

Question 5 of 5

While evaluating the reflexes of the newborn, the nurse notes that with a loud noise the newborn symmetrically abduct and extend his arms, his fingers fan out and forms a c with the thumb and forefinger. What does the nurse document?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Positive Moro reflex. The Moro reflex is elicited by a sudden loud noise or a jarring movement. The newborn symmetrically abducts and extends their arms, followed by fanning out their fingers and forming a "C" shape with the thumb and forefinger. This reflex is an involuntary response that indicates the normal development of the newborn's nervous system. The other choices are incorrect because: B: Positive Babinski reflex is elicited by stroking the sole of the foot, resulting in the toes fanning out and big toe dorsiflexing. C: Rooting reflex is elicited by touching the newborn's cheek, causing them to turn their head towards the stimulus and open their mouth to seek food. D: Tonic neck reflex is elicited by turning the newborn's head to one side, causing extension of the arm on that side and flexion of the opposite arm.

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