Complications of Postpartum Related

Review Complications of Postpartum related questions and content

A woman who is 4 hours postpartum ambulates to the bathroom and suddenly has a large gush of lochia rubra. The nurse 's first action should be to:

  • A. Determine whether the bleeding slows to normal or remains as a large volume.
  • B. Observe vital signs for signs of hypovolemic shock.
  • C. Check to see what her previous lochia flow has been.
  • D. Identify the type of pain relief that was given when she was in labor.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should first determine whether the bleeding slows or continues to be excessive, as it may be a normal occurrence post-ambulation or indicative of a complication.