Current Issues in Maternal-Newborn Nursing Related

Review Current Issues in Maternal-Newborn Nursing related questions and content

The telephone triage nurse receives a call from a patient who is 5 days postoperative total
abdominal hysterectomy. The patient states that her pain is not relieved with the medications and
that she has noticed blood in her urine. The nurse instructs the patient to report immediately to the
emergency department. What does the nurse suspect as the surgical complication?

  • A. Possible complication related to the anesthesia
  • B. Possible injury to the ureters or bladder
  • C. Possible hemorrhage from the internal incision
  • D. Possible peritoneal venous thromboembolism
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this situation where the patient is 5 days postoperative total abdominal hysterectomy and experiencing pain that is not relieved with medications, the nurse should suspect a possible hemorrhage from the internal incision. Although some pain is expected postoperatively, severe or worsening pain that is not relieved with medications can indicate a complication such as internal bleeding. Immediate medical attention is needed to assess and manage any potential hemorrhage to prevent further complications or adverse outcomes. Other signs of internal bleeding may include symptoms such as increasing abdominal distention, tachycardia, hypotension, and signs of shock.