Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 70%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who delivered by cesarean birth 6 hr ago. The nurse notes a steady trickle of vaginal bleeding that does not stop with fundal massage. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Administer 500 mL lactated RingerÔÇÖs IV bolus. This action is necessary to address the persistent vaginal bleeding after cesarean birth, as it could be a sign of postpartum hemorrhage. Administering IV fluids helps to improve circulating volume and maintain adequate perfusion to vital organs. This can help stabilize the client's condition while further assessments and interventions are carried out.
Choice A: Replacing the surgical dressing does not address the underlying cause of the bleeding and is not a priority at this time.
Choice B: Evaluating urinary output is important but not the immediate action needed to address the vaginal bleeding.
Choice C: Applying an ice pack to the incision site is not appropriate for controlling postpartum bleeding.
In summary, administering IV fluids is the priority to address potential postpartum hemorrhage, while the other options do not directly address the urgent issue at hand.
Choice A: Replacing the surgical dressing does not address the underlying cause of the bleeding and is not a priority at this time.
Choice B: Evaluating urinary output is important but not the immediate action needed to address the vaginal bleeding.
Choice C: Applying an ice pack to the incision site is not appropriate for controlling postpartum bleeding.
In summary, administering IV fluids is the priority to address potential postpartum hemorrhage, while the other options do not directly address the urgent issue at hand.