The nurse has received the end-of-shift report on the postpartum ...

[lbcchick]

The nurse has received the end-of-shift report on the postpartum unit. Which client should the nurse see first?
 
  1. Woman who is 2nd day post-cesarean, moderate lochia serosa
  2. Woman day of delivery, fundus firm 2 cm above umbilicus
  3. Woman who had a cesarean section, 1st postpartum day, 4 cm diastasis recti abdominis
  4. Woman who had a cesarean section, 1st postpartum day, hypoactive bowel sounds all quadrants

Question 2

The nurse assesses the postpartum client who has not had a bowel movement by the third postpartum day. Which nursing intervention would be appropriate?
 
  1. Encourage the new mother, saying, It will happen soon.
  2. Instruct the client to eat a low-fiber diet.
  3. Decrease fluid intake.
  4. Obtain an order for a stool softener.

[Danny Ewald]

Answer to Question 1

2
Explanation: 2. This client is the top priority. The fundus should not be positioned above the umbilicus after delivery. If the fundus is in the midline but higher than expected, it is usually associated with clots within the uterus.

Answer to Question 2

4
Explanation: 4. Obtaining an order for a stool softener is the correct intervention by the third day. In resisting or delaying the bowel movement, the woman may cause increased constipation and more pain when elimination finally occurs.