Author Question: A patient on the postpartum floor of the hospital has a body mass index (BMI) of 38 and just gave ... (Read 34 times)

azncindy619 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A patient on the postpartum floor of the hospital has a body mass index (BMI) of 38 and just gave birth to a healthy baby girl by Cesarean section. Which action by the nurse takes highest priority?

A.
Administering pain medication promptly when requested
B.
Assisting the woman to begin breastfeeding the infant
C.
Educating the woman about healthy weight loss
D.
Monitoring the incision site and using strict hand-washing technique

Question 2

The perinatal nurse notes that a patient has the diagnosis of ptyalism. What topic should the nurse include in the patient's teaching plan?

A.
The benefits of acupuncture
B.
The need to eat more red meat
C.
The importance of strict vulvar hygiene
D.
The suggestion to suck on hard candy

macagnavarro · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
All of these interventions are appropriate for this patient. However, patient safety is the priority. Women with Level 2 obesity (BMI 35-39.9) are at higher risk of wound infection and breakdown. The nurse should place a priority on hand hygiene and close monitoring of the incision.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Ptyalism is an excessive production of saliva. Possible helpful strategies include sucking on hard candy, brushing the teeth often, drinking plenty of water in small sips, and consuming small frequent meals with fewer starchy foods. Acupuncture can help with nausea and vomiting, vulvar hygiene would be recommended for leukorrhea, and eating more red meat may help with dietary insufficiencies.