Nursing Elites

1. A client who is 12 hours postpartum has a fundus located two fingerbreadths above the umbilicus, deviated to the right of the midline, and less firm than previously noted. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Place the client in a side-lying position.
• B. Assist the client to the bathroom to void.
• C. Obtain a prescription for IV oxytocin.
• D. Administer methylergonovine.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the client's fundus findings indicate a distended bladder, which can lead to uterine atony. Assisting the client to the bathroom to void is essential as a distended bladder can inhibit the uterus from contracting normally. This action can help the uterus contract effectively and prevent complications such as postpartum hemorrhage. Placing the client in a side-lying position, obtaining a prescription for IV oxytocin, or administering methylergonovine are not the priority actions in this situation. Placing the client in a side-lying position might be indicated for fundal displacement, but it is not the priority here. Obtaining a prescription for IV oxytocin and administering methylergonovine are interventions for managing uterine atony, which is not the primary issue in this case; the priority is addressing the distended bladder.

2. During an assessment of a client in labor who received epidural anesthesia, which finding should the nurse identify as a complication of the epidural block?

• A. Vomiting
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Respiratory depression
• D. Hypotension

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypotension is a common complication of epidural anesthesia due to the vasodilation effect of the medication. Epidural anesthesia can lead to vasodilation, causing a decrease in blood pressure. This hypotension may result in decreased perfusion to vital organs and compromise maternal and fetal well-being. Tachycardia is less likely as a complication of epidural anesthesia since it tends to have a vasodilatory effect. Respiratory depression is more commonly associated with other forms of anesthesia, such as general anesthesia, rather than epidural anesthesia. Vomiting is not typically a direct complication of epidural anesthesia and is more commonly seen with other factors such as pain or medications given during labor.

3. A client in active labor at 39 weeks of gestation is receiving continuous IV oxytocin and has early decelerations in the FHR on the monitor tracing. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Discontinue the oxytocin infusion.
• B. Continue monitoring the client.
• C. Request that the provider assess the client.
• D. Increase the infusion rate of the maintenance IV fluid.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Early decelerations in the FHR are benign and are typically caused by fetal head compression during contractions. In this case, with the client at 39 weeks of gestation and on oxytocin, it is important for the nurse to continue monitoring the client. Early decelerations do not require intervention as they are a normal response to certain stimuli and do not indicate fetal distress. Discontinuing the oxytocin infusion (Choice A) is not necessary as early decelerations are not related to oxytocin administration. Requesting the provider to assess the client (Choice C) is not needed for early decelerations as they are a normal finding. Increasing the infusion rate of the maintenance IV fluid (Choice D) is not indicated and would not address the early decelerations. Therefore, the appropriate action is to continue monitoring the client and reassess as needed.

4. A caregiver is learning about newborn safety. Which of the following statements by a parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will dress my baby in flame-retardant clothing.
• B. I will ensure a bib on my baby at night to keep her clothing dry.
• C. I will warm my baby's formula using the lowest setting in the microwave.
• D. I will cover the crib mattress with plastic to prevent staining.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Dressing a baby in flame-retardant clothing is crucial to prevent injuries, especially in case of accidental exposure to fire sources. This safety measure can provide an added layer of protection for the newborn. The other options do not directly address newborn safety concerns or best practices. Option B focuses on keeping clothing dry, which is not a primary safety concern. Option C poses a risk of overheating the formula, which can be dangerous for the baby. Option D, covering the crib mattress with plastic, may pose a suffocation hazard to the baby.

5. A client who is 2 hours postpartum is in the taking-hold phase. Which intervention should the nurse plan to implement during this phase of postpartum behavioral adjustment?

• A. Discuss contraceptive options with the client and her partner.
• B. Repeat information to ensure client understanding.
• C. Listen to the client and her partner as they reflect upon the birth experience.
• D. Demonstrate to the client how to perform a newborn bath.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During the taking-hold phase of postpartum behavioral adjustment, the new mother starts taking a stronger interest in her new role as a mother. This phase involves the mother focusing on the care of her newborn and acquiring parenting skills. Demonstrating how to perform a newborn bath is an appropriate intervention during this phase as it helps the mother actively engage in caring for her baby, which aligns with the developmental tasks of this phase. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not specifically address the mother's need to actively engage in caring for her newborn during the taking-hold phase. Discussing contraceptive options, repeating information, and listening to reflections on the birth experience are more relevant to other phases of postpartum adjustment.

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