Postpartum Care NCLEX Questions Related

Review Postpartum Care NCLEX Questions related questions and content

A nurse is taking care of a G2P2 woman with a third-degree perineal tear during the fourth stage of labor. The nurse should include which intervention in the plan of care during her 12-hour shift?

  • A. Assess vital signs every 4 hours.
  • B. Keep patient NPO for first 12 hours.
  • C. Catheterize patient prior to first ambulation.
  • D. Prepare ice pack for application to perineal area.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Prepare ice pack for application to perineal area. This intervention is crucial for managing pain and reducing swelling in the perineal area post third-degree tear. Ice packs help vasoconstriction, decreasing blood flow and minimizing inflammation. It also provides comfort to the patient.

A: Assess vital signs every 4 hours - This is important but not the priority in this situation. Monitoring vital signs is essential, but immediate comfort measures should be prioritized for the patient with a perineal tear.
B: Keep patient NPO for first 12 hours - There is no indication to keep the patient NPO for 12 hours. Adequate hydration and nutrition are important for postpartum recovery.
C: Catheterize patient prior to first ambulation - Catheterization may not be necessary unless there are specific indications. It is not a routine intervention for a perineal tear during the fourth stage of labor.