Signs and symptoms of puerperal infection to assess for in the ...

[rachel9]

Signs and symptoms of puerperal infection to assess for in the postpartum woman are:
 
  a. Fatigue and bradycardia
  b. Profuse vaginal bleeding
  c. Temperature 38 C (100.4 F) or higher on two successive days after the first 24 hours after delivery
  d. Uterine tenderness and enlargement within the first 24 hours after delivery

Question 2

During a postpartum assessment, the nurse notes a bluish discoloration and numbness of the woman's episiotomy. The most appropriate nursing action is to:
 
  a. Notify the health care provider.
  b. Document the findings as normal.
  c. Prepare the woman for a sitz bath.
  d. Reassure the woman that this is normal healing.

[mjbamaung]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
A woman is considered to have a puerperal infection if she has a fever of 38 C (100.4 F) or higher after the first 24 hours following delivery and the fever is maintained at least 2 days within the first 10 days postpartum. Tachycardia (not bradycardia) is associated with fever. Although uterine tenderness and enlargement may be associated with puerperal infection, these symptoms do not generally arise until 2 to 5 days postpartum. Profuse vaginal bleeding is associated with hemorrhage.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Blue discoloration and numbness of the episiotomy edges may be indicative of necrotizing fasciitis, a potentially life-threatening wound infection. The health care provider must be notified immediately so appropriate treatment can be instituted.

[rachel9]

TYSM

[brbarasa]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it