Author Question: With regard to the postpartum changes and developments in a woman's cardiovascular system, nurses ... (Read 23 times)

tingc95 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

With regard to the postpartum changes and developments in a woman's cardiovascular system, nurses should be aware that:

a. Cardiac output, the pulse rate, and stroke volume all return to prepregnancy normal values within a few hours of childbirth.
b. Respiratory function returns to nonpregnant levels by 6 to 8 weeks after birth.
c. The lowered white blood cell count after pregnancy can lead to false-positive results on tests for infections.
d. A hypercoagulable state protects the new mother from thromboembolism, especially after a cesarean birth.

Question 2

Postbirth uterine/vaginal discharge, called lochia:

a. Is similar to a light menstrual period for the first 6 to 12 hours.
b. Is usually greater after cesarean births.
c. Will usually decrease with ambulation and breastfeeding.
d. Should smell like normal menstrual flow unless an infection is present.

huda · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Respirations should decrease to within the woman's normal prepregnancy range by 6 to 8 weeks after birth. Stroke volume increases, and cardiac output remains high for a couple of days. However, the heart rate and blood pressure return to normal quickly. Leukocytosis increases 10 to 12 days after childbirth and can obscure the diagnosis of acute infections (false-negative results). The hypercoagulable state increases the risk of thromboembolism, especially after a cesarean birth.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
An offensive odor usually indicates an infection. Lochia flow should approximate a heavy menstrual period for the first 2 hours and then steadily decrease. Less lochia usually is seen after cesarean births and usually increases with ambulation and breastfeeding.