RN ATI Maternal Newborn 2023 with NGN Related

Review RN ATI Maternal Newborn 2023 with NGN related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a postpartum client who is receiving heparin via a continuous IV infusion for thrombophlebitis in their left calf. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Administer aspirin for pain.
  • B. Maintain the client on bed rest.
  • C. Massage the affected leg every 12 hr.
  • D. Apply cold compresses to the affected calf.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintain the client on bed rest. It is essential to maintain the client on bed rest to prevent further complications and to reduce the risk of dislodging the clot. Moving the affected leg could potentially dislodge the clot, leading to serious consequences such as pulmonary embolism. Administering aspirin for pain (choice A) is not appropriate as it can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in a patient receiving heparin. Massaging the affected leg (choice C) can also dislodge the clot and should be avoided. Applying cold compresses (choice D) can potentially exacerbate the situation by causing vasoconstriction and increasing the risk of clot formation.