ATI RN
Complication Postpartum Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which medications are used to manage PPH? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Oxytocin. Oxytocin is the first-line medication for managing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) as it helps in the contraction of the uterus to control bleeding. Methergine (B) is used for uterine atony but is not the first-line choice. Terbutaline (C) is a tocolytic agent and not indicated for PPH. Hemabate (D) is used as a second-line medication for PPH after oxytocin.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse in a labor and delivery department carefully assesses postpartum patients for signs of complications related to hemorrhage. Which factor makes it most difficult to identify the risk of hemorrhage through vital sign evaluation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because changes in blood pressure may not be an immediate sign of hemorrhage. Hemorrhage can occur rapidly and cause a drop in blood pressure, but it may not be the first sign observed. Vital signs such as blood pressure can fluctuate for various reasons, making it challenging to solely rely on them to identify hemorrhage risk. Elevated blood pressure from prenatal conditions (A) and increased respirations due to labor activity (B) are more likely to be expected and can be explained by those specific factors. Heart rate increasing with the intensity of labor (D) is a common physiological response and may not necessarily indicate hemorrhage.
Question 3 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 4 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 5 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.