RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam Related

Review RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam 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: Correct Answer: C - Assist the client to empty their bladder.

Rationale: The client's uterus palpated to the right above the umbilicus indicates a full bladder displacing the uterus. A distended bladder can prevent the uterus from contracting effectively, leading to increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Emptying the bladder helps the uterus contract properly, reducing the risk of complications. This intervention directly addresses the underlying issue.

Incorrect Choices:
A: Reassessing in 2 hours does not address the immediate concern of a full bladder causing uterine displacement.
B: Simethicone is used for gas relief and is not relevant in this situation.
D: Instructing the client to lie on their right side does not address the bladder distention issue.
E, F, G: Irrelevant as they do not address the specific problem of a full bladder causing uterine displacement.