Complication Postpartum

Complication Postpartum Related

Review Complication Postpartum related questions and content

The nurse suspects that her postpartum client is experiencing hemorrhagic shock. Which observation indicates or would confirm this diagnosis?

  • A. Absence of cyanosis in the buccal mucosa
  • B. Cool, dry skin
  • C. Calm mental status
  • D. Urinary output of at least 30 ml/hr
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hemorrhagic shock is characterized by inadequate tissue perfusion due to severe blood loss, leading to decreased circulating volume. The body's compensatory mechanisms kick in to maintain blood pressure, causing the peripheral blood vessels to constrict. This constriction can lead to cool, clammy, and pale skin as the body shunts blood away from the skin's surface to the vital organs. The skin may also feel cool to the touch due to reduced perfusion. This observation is significant in indicating hemorrhagic shock because it signifies the body's response to the insufficient circulating volume and the need to prioritize perfusion to essential organs.

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What is a risk factor for PPD?

  • A. vaginal birth
  • B. family support
  • C. traumatic birth
  • D. breast-feeding
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A traumatic birth experience including complications or high-stress events increases the risk of postpartum depression (PPD).

To help the postpartum woman avoid constipation, the nurse should teach her to:

  • A. Avoid intake of foods such as milk, cheese, or yogurt.
  • B. Take a laxative for the first 3 postpartum days.
  • C. Drink at least 1600 mL of noncaffeinated fluids daily.
  • D. Limit her walking until the episiotomy is fully healed.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Drinking at least 1600 mL of noncaffeinated fluids daily helps to prevent constipation by promoting hydration, which is essential in the postpartum period.

A maternity nurse knows that obstetric clients are most at high risk for cardiovascular compromise during the one hour immediately following a delivery because of which of the following?

  • A. Weight of the uterine body is significantly reduced.
  • B. Excess blood volume from pregnancy is circulating in the woman 's periphery.
  • C. Cervix is fully dilated and the lochia flows freely.
  • D. Maternal blood pressure drops precipitously once the baby 's head emerges.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During the first hour postpartum, the excess blood volume that was circulating to the uterus is redistributed to the woman's peripheral circulation, which can lead to cardiovascular instability.

The postpartum nurse notices that the last dose of IV Cefazolin is not running well. The patient’s IV site appears red, inflamed, and swollen. The patient states that the IV is tender and sore. What are the nurse’s next actions?

  • A. Flush the IV with normal saline to improve the flow rate.
  • B. Put the IV antibiotic on a pump for more accurate infusion of the correct dose.
  • C. Remove the IV, restart it in a new location, and complete the antibiotic administration.
  • D. Allow the IV to continue to drip slowly since it is her last dose.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The IV site indicates phlebitis, and the appropriate action is to remove and restart the IV to avoid further complications.

The nurse is assessing the laboratory report on a 2-day postpartum G1 P1001. The woman had a normal postpartum assessment this morning. Which of the following results should the nurse report to the primary health care provider?

  • A. White blood cells, 12,500 cells/mm3.
  • B. Red blood cells, 4,500,000 cells/mm3.
  • C. Hematocrit, 26%.
  • D. Hemoglobin, 11 g/dL
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A hematocrit of 26% indicates possible anemia, and it should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation.

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