A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has an epidural for pain control. Which of the following clinical manifestations is an adverse effect of epidural anesthesia?
- A. Polyuria.
- B. Hypertension.
- C. Pruritus.
- D. Dry mouth.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Pruritus is a frequent side effect of epidural anesthesia, particularly when using opioids like fentanyl, due to histamine release or opioid receptors activation in the spinal cord.
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A nurse is teaching a pregnant client who is Rh-negative about Rho(D) immune globulin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
- A. This shot may be given after birth to protect future pregnancies.
- B. If my partner is Rh-negative, I will not receive the shot.
- C. I will receive the shot after delivery if my baby is Rh-negative.
- D. I should not receive any immunizations for 3 months after the shot.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rho(D) immune globulin administered postpartum prevents maternal sensitization to Rh-positive fetal blood cells, reducing risks of hemolytic disease in subsequent pregnancies by suppressing maternal immune response.
A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a mastectomy. The client expresses concern that they will no longer be attractive to their partner. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Discourage the client from looking at their breasts.
- B. Recommend a support group for the client to attend.
- C. Tell the client you are so sorry for how devastated they must feel.
- D. Tell the client to focus on their postoperative recovery for now.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Recommending a support group provides psychosocial support, enabling clients to share experiences and gain insights from peers, which can alleviate feelings of inadequacy and encourage acceptance of body image changes.
A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for ibuprofen to treat postpartum cramping. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask prior to administering the medication?
- A. Are you taking over-the-counter medications?
- B. Do you have a history of gastric problems?
- C. What kind of contraception will you be using?
- D. Are you being treated for high blood pressure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Ibuprofen can interact with various over-the-counter medications, including anticoagulants and corticosteroids, which may increase risks of side effects like gastrointestinal bleeding or reduced efficacy, necessitating careful assessment of concurrent drug use.
A nurse on a postpartum unit is receiving change-of-shift report for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?
- A. A client who gave birth 1 day ago and needs Rh(D) immune globulin.
- B. A client who gave birth 3 days ago and reports breast fullness.
- C. A client who gave birth 12 hours ago and reports an increase in urinary output.
- D. A client who gave birth 8 hours ago and is saturating a perineal pad every hour.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Saturating a perineal pad every hour 8 hours postpartum indicates heavy vaginal bleeding, potentially signifying postpartum hemorrhage, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate evaluation and intervention.
A nurse is caring for a client. Which of the following interventions should the nurse perform?
- A. Inspect the perineum.
- B. Massage the fundus.
- C. Administer oxytocin.
- D. Assist the client to void.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Massaging the fundus stimulates uterine contractions, reducing uterine atony and preventing further hemorrhage. This is a first-line intervention for postpartum excessive bleeding.