ATI RN Maternal Newborn 2023/24 1st Attempt & Retake Related

Review ATI RN Maternal Newborn 2023/24 1st Attempt & Retake related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a client who gave birth vaginally 12 hr ago and palpates their uterus to the right above the umbilicus. Which of the following interventions should the nurse perform?

  • A. Reassess the client in 2 hr.
  • B. Administer simethicone.
  • C. Assist the client to empty their bladder.
  • D. Instruct the client to lie on their right side.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Assist the client to empty their bladder. Palpating the uterus above the umbilicus indicates uterine atony, a common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. A full bladder can displace the uterus further, exacerbating the risk of hemorrhage. Emptying the bladder will allow the uterus to contract properly and reduce the risk. Reassessing the client in 2 hours (A) delays immediate intervention. Administering simethicone (B) is for gas relief and not relevant in this situation. Instructing the client to lie on their right side (D) does not address the underlying issue of uterine atony.