Complications of Postpartum Related

Review Complications of Postpartum related questions and content

The nurse is assessing a patient who is 12 hours postpartum. The uterus is firm to palpation, at midline, and is 1 cm below the umbilicus with continuous heavy vaginal bleeding. What is the nurse’s first action?

  • A. Massage the uterus and resume the IV Pitocin drip.
  • B. Change the peri-pad and reassess the bleeding.
  • C. Call the provider to check for a cervical laceration.
  • D. Administer the ordered iron supplement and ibuprofen.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse must address the uterine tone and bleeding immediately by massaging the uterus and resuming Pitocin to prevent hemorrhage.