The nurse is providing care for a patient who is 8 hours postpartum after a vaginal delivery. The patient reports severe perineal pain unaffected by pain medication. The nurse notices a 4 cm area of discoloration on the labia that is tender to the touch. Which action does the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Contact the primary care provider for further evaluation. The patient's symptoms of severe perineal pain, discoloration on the labia, and tenderness indicate a potential complication such as hematoma or infection. Contacting the primary care provider is essential for prompt assessment and appropriate intervention to prevent further complications. Continuing to apply ice (A) may not address the underlying issue and could potentially worsen the condition. Monitoring vital signs (B) is important but may not provide direct insight into the specific problem. Relieving pressure by placing the patient in a side-lying position (D) is not the priority in this situation and may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.