ATI RN
Postpartum Hormonal Changes Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which maternal event is abnormal in the early postpartal period?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the normal progression of lochia after childbirth is from rubra (red) to serosa (pinkish-brown) to alba (yellow-white). This signifies the normal healing process of the uterus. Choices A, B, and C are all normal postpartum events. Diuresis and diaphoresis help eliminate excess fluid from pregnancy, flatulence and constipation can occur due to hormonal changes and decreased muscle tone, and extreme hunger and thirst are common as the body recovers from childbirth.
Question 2 of 5
Which clinical finding should the nurse suspect if the fundus is palpated on the right side of the abdomen above the expected level?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, a distended bladder. When the fundus is palpated on the right side above the expected level, it indicates that the bladder is full and pushing the uterus upward and to the right. This can interfere with the normal descent of the uterus during involution, leading to the fundus being higher than expected. Choice B, normal involution, is incorrect as it does not explain the fundus being palpated above the expected level. Choice C, lying on her right side too long, is incorrect as body position does not typically result in the fundus being displaced. Choice D, stretched ligaments that are unable to support the uterus, is incorrect as stretched ligaments would not cause the fundus to be palpated above the expected level; rather, it would lead to a lower position of the uterus.
Question 3 of 5
Which measure is optimal in order to prevent abdominal distention following a cesarean birth?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Early and frequent ambulation. This measure is optimal to prevent abdominal distention following a cesarean birth because it helps promote bowel motility and gas expulsion. Ambulation stimulates peristalsis, preventing gas accumulation and reducing the risk of distention. Rectal suppositories (A) may help with constipation but do not address the root cause of distention. Carbonated beverages (B) can exacerbate bloating and gas production. Tightening and relaxing abdominal muscles (D) may provide some relief but are not as effective as promoting ambulation for preventing abdominal distention.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse has completed a postpartum assessment on a patient who delivered 1 hour ago. Which amount of lochia consists of a moderate amount?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (10 to 15 cm (4- to 6-inch) stain on the peripad) because a moderate amount of lochia typically indicates a blood stain of 10 to 15 cm within 1 hour postpartum. This amount of lochia signifies a normal postpartum bleeding pattern. Incorrect answers: A: Saturated peripad indicates a heavy amount of lochia, not moderate. C: 2.5 to 10 cm (1- to 4-inch) stain on the peripad is considered light, not moderate. D: Less than a 1-inch stain on the peripad is minimal lochia, not moderate.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a postpartum patient who delivered by the vaginal route 12 hours ago. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the health care provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A - Pulse rate of 50 Rationale: 1. A normal postpartum pulse rate is 60-100 bpm. 2. A pulse rate of 50 is below normal range, indicating potential bradycardia. 3. Bradycardia can be a sign of postpartum hemorrhage or other complications. 4. Reporting this finding promptly can help in early intervention. Summary: B: A temperature of 38C (100.4F) could indicate infection but is within normal postpartum range. C: A firm fundus with excessive lochia may indicate uterine atony, but is not as urgent as bradycardia. D: Feeling lightheaded when changing positions is common postpartum but not as concerning as a low pulse rate.