The nurse includes the addition of ice sitz baths for the ...

[azncindy619]

The nurse includes the addition of ice sitz baths for the postpartum patient. Which assessment finding indicates the treatment has been effective?
 
  a. No swelling or edema to the perineal area
  b. Patient complains that the sitz bath is too cold
  c. Patient reports she took two sitz baths in 12 hours
  d. Edges of the perineal laceration are well approximated

Question 2

The nurse is performing a postpartum assessment on a client and concludes with the assessment depicted in the figure. Which is the rationale for performing the depicted assessment?
 
  a. Check for edema.
  b. Check for range of motion.
  c. Check for adequate reflexes.
  d. Check for deep vein thrombosis.

[jsm54321]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Sitz baths may be offered two to four times a day to women with episiotomies, painful hemorrhoids, or perineal edema. Sitz baths provide continuous circulation of water and cleanse and comfort the traumatized perineum. Cool water reduces pain caused by edema and may be most effective within the first 24 hours. Ice can be added to cool the water to a comfortable level as the woman sits in it. Approximation of the edges of a wound facilitate wound healing. The purpose of the cold sitz bath is to decrease the edema secondary to tissue trauma.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Discomfort in the calf with sharp dorsiflexion of the foot is a positive Homans sign and may indicate deep vein thrombosis. Edema is checked by palpating and pressing on the top of the foot, range of motion is not a postpartum assessment, and reflexes are checked at the patellar area.