To decrease the pain associated with an episiotomy immediately ...

[LCritchfi]

To decrease the pain associated with an episiotomy immediately after birth, the nurse would:
 
  A) Offer warm blankets
  B) Encourage the woman to void
  C) Apply an ice pack to the site
  D) Offer a warm sitz bath

Question 2

A woman who is 12 hours postpartum had a pulse rate around 80 beats per minute during pregnancy. Now, the nurse finds a pulse of 60 beats per minute. Which of these actions should the nurse take?
 
  A) Document the finding, as it is a normal finding at this time.
  B) Contact the physician, as it indicates early DIC.
  C) Contact the physician, as it is a first sign of postpartum eclampsia.
  D) Obtain an order for a CBC, as it suggests postpartum anemia.

[mcabuhat]

Answer to Question 1

C
Response:
An ice pack is the first measure used after a vaginal birth to provide perineal comfort from edema, an episiotomy, or lacerations. Warm blankets would be helpful for the chills that the woman may experience. Encouraging her to void promotes urinary elimination and uterine involution. A warm sitz bath is effective after the first 24 hours.

Answer to Question 2

A
Response:
As a result of the changes in blood volume and cardiac output after delivery, relative bradycardia may be noted. The woman's pulse rate may range from 50 to 70 beats per minute.