The nurse is instructing a postpartum patient on observations to ...

[madam-professor]

The nurse is instructing a postpartum patient on observations to report to the health care provider which signifies retained placental fragments. Which patient statement indicates that teaching has been effective?
 
  A) If the drainage changes from clear to bright red, I am to call the doctor..
  B) I will have large amount of vaginal drainage for at least several months..
  C) An elevated temperature is normal during the first few weeks after delivery..
  D) My drainage will fluctuate between bright red and dark red for several weeks..

Question 2

A patient is receiving treatment for a postpartum complication. Which action should the nurse perform to support the 2020 National Health Goals during the postpartum period?
 
  A) Encourage to continue breastfeeding.
  B) Suggest breastfeeding be discontinued.
  C) Instruct on supplementing feedings with formula.
  D) Explain how breastfeeding will weaken the patient's condition.

[k.lashomb]

Answer to Question 1

A
Feedback:
Because the hemorrhage from retained fragments may be delayed until after the patient is home, instruct to observe the color of lochia and to report any tendency for the discharge to change from lochia serosa or alba back to rubra. The patient will not have large amounts of drainage for several months. An elevated temperature indicates an infection. The drainage should not fluctuate between bright and dark red and could indicate retained placental fragments.

Answer to Question 2

A
Feedback:
The postpartal period is a time when patients are susceptible to complications and may choose not to breastfeed. Nurses can help the nation achieve the 2020 National Health Goals by encouraging women to breastfeed even in the face of a postpartal complication. Suggesting that breastfeeding be discontinued or using supplemental feedings will not support the national goals. Breastfeeding is not known to weaken the patient's condition while being treated for a complication.

[madam-professor]

TYSM

[amandalm]

Excellent