ATI RN
Complications of Postpartum Questions
Question 1 of 5
What symptom can partners of persons with PPD experience?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of postpartum complications, partners of persons with Postpartum Depression (PPD) can experience symptoms of psychosis. Psychosis is characterized by a loss of contact with reality, which can manifest as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Partners of individuals with PPD may witness or be affected by these symptoms due to the challenging and stressful nature of supporting a loved one dealing with PPD. Regarding the incorrect options: - Depression (Option A) is a common symptom experienced by individuals with PPD themselves, but partners are more likely to experience heightened stress and anxiety rather than depression. - Bipolar disorder (Option C) and mania (Option D) involve distinct mood disturbances that are not typically directly associated with partners of individuals with PPD. Understanding the potential symptoms partners may experience is crucial for healthcare providers, as they play a significant role in supporting both the individual with PPD and their partner. Education on the range of possible symptoms can help providers offer appropriate support and interventions to ensure the well-being of all individuals involved in the postpartum care process.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is taking the postpartum patient’s vital signs. The newborn is across the room in the bassinet, and the postpartum person refuses to hold the newborn. What should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option B: Ask the person if they are feeling depressed, hopeless, afraid, or overwhelmed. This response is appropriate because the nurse should assess the postpartum person's mental and emotional well-being, as their refusal to hold the newborn may indicate underlying issues such as postpartum depression or anxiety. By addressing these feelings directly, the nurse can provide necessary support and intervention. Option A, calling CPS for risk of child abuse, is not the initial action to take in this situation as it can escalate the issue without addressing the root cause of the postpartum person's behavior. This option lacks sensitivity and understanding towards the complexities of postpartum complications. Option C, asking the healthcare provider to order an antidepressant, is premature without a comprehensive assessment of the postpartum person's mental health status. Medication should not be the first-line intervention without exploring other factors contributing to their behavior. Option D, discussing how good parents hold and talk to their newborns, does not address the immediate concern of the postpartum person's refusal to hold the newborn. This option overlooks the importance of assessing the individual's emotional state and providing appropriate support. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers, especially nurses, to be adept at recognizing signs of postpartum complications and providing holistic care that includes mental health assessment and support. Understanding the complexities of postpartum mental health is essential for delivering patient-centered care and promoting positive health outcomes for both the postpartum person and the newborn.
Question 3 of 5
A patient delivered vaginally 20 minutes ago. Prophylactic Pitocin is infusing intravenously. During the initial postpartum assessment, the nurse notes a heavy amount of bleeding on the perineal pad. What are the priority nursing actions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct nursing action is option B: assess the fundus and massage the uterus to determine uterine tone and location. This is the priority because heavy bleeding postpartum could indicate uterine atony, which is a common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. By assessing the fundus, the nurse can determine if the uterus is firm (indicating good tone) or boggy (indicating poor tone), which will guide further interventions like massage to stimulate contractions and reduce bleeding. Option A is incorrect because while assessing for lacerations is important, addressing uterine atony takes precedence in this situation. Option C is also incorrect as catheterization is not the immediate priority unless there are signs of bladder distension impacting uterine contraction. Option D is incorrect because while assessing for clots is necessary, addressing uterine tone is the priority over determining normal bleeding amounts at this point. In an educational context, understanding the importance of prompt assessment and management of postpartum hemorrhage is critical for nurses caring for postpartum women. Recognizing the signs of uterine atony and knowing how to address it effectively can prevent serious complications and save lives in the postpartum period. This scenario highlights the significance of quick and accurate nursing interventions in managing postpartum complications.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is admitting a 38-year-old patient to triage in early labor with ruptured membranes. Her history includes a previous vaginal delivery 4 years ago and the presence of a uterine fibroid. What interventions are appropriate based on the hemorrhage risk for this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, option A is the most appropriate intervention for the patient based on the hemorrhage risk. The patient's history of a previous vaginal delivery and the presence of a uterine fibroid increase her risk of hemorrhage during the current labor and delivery process. Ordering a type and screen allows for the preparation of blood products in case of significant hemorrhage, ensuring timely access to necessary interventions. Option B is incorrect because ordering 4 units of packed red blood cells without prior assessment or indication of active hemorrhage is not in line with evidence-based practice and may expose the patient to unnecessary risks. Option C is also incorrect as drawing a hold tube alone does not adequately address the hemorrhage risk in this high-risk patient population. It is essential to proactively assess and prepare for potential complications. Option D is not the best course of action as it neglects the patient's moderate hemorrhage risk based on her history and current clinical presentation. It is crucial to be proactive in managing potential complications in obstetric patients to ensure optimal outcomes. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of risk assessment and appropriate interventions in the management of postpartum complications. Understanding the individualized risk factors for each patient is essential in providing safe and effective care during the peripartum period. By choosing the correct intervention based on the patient's risk profile, healthcare providers can optimize outcomes and ensure timely management of potential complications.
Question 5 of 5
A woman is 1 hour postcesarean delivery with nausea and an estimated blood loss of 1,200 mL. She is currently experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding and has a uterus that firms with massage. She has a history of asthma with a current O2 saturation of 89%. The licensed provider has ordered Cytotec 800 mcg and Methergine 0.2 mg. What collaborative communication should occur between the nurse and provider?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Recommend that the patient not get Methergine because she has a history of asthma. Methergine is contraindicated in patients with a history of asthma due to its potential to induce bronchospasm. As a nurse, it is crucial to communicate this contraindication to the provider to prevent exacerbation of the patient's asthma and potential respiratory distress. Option A is incorrect because delaying administration of Cytotec and Methergine could worsen the patient's condition, as she is experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding. Option B is incorrect as rectal administration of Cytotec is not necessary in this situation, and the route of Methergine is not the primary concern given the patient's asthma history. Option C is incorrect as removing the abdominal dressing to inspect for incisional bleeding is not the priority in managing postpartum hemorrhage and asthma exacerbation. Educationally, this scenario highlights the importance of understanding medication contraindications based on a patient's medical history and the critical role of effective communication between nurses and providers to ensure safe and individualized patient care.