Nokea
A postpartum patient calls the clinic 4 days after the birth of her newborn because she is extremely tired and her vaginal bleeding is heavier. Which does the nurse anticipate when advising her to come in to the office right now?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. The nurse anticipates that a hematocrit will be drawn and the provider will check for retained placental fragments because heavy vaginal bleeding and extreme fatigue could indicate postpartum hemorrhage due to retained placental tissue. This is a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications such as infection or hemorrhagic shock.
Choice B is incorrect because prescribing sleeping medication does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Choice C is incorrect because lacerations would typically have been evaluated and repaired during delivery, and would not likely be missed. Choice D is incorrect because reassuring the client without further evaluation could lead to potential serious consequences if the underlying issue of retained placental fragments is not addressed promptly.