Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 63%
Simulated
After delivery, the postpartum nurse instructs the client with known cardiac disease to call for the nurse when she needs to get out of bed or when she plans to care for her newborn infant. Which rationale is the basis for these instructions?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The immediate postpartum period is associated with increased risks for the cardiac client. Hormonal changes and fluid shifts from extravascular tissues to the circulatory system cause additional stress on cardiac functioning. Although options 1, 2, and 3 are appropriate nursing concerns during the postpartum period, the primary concern for the cardiac client is to maintain a safe environment because of the potential for cardiac compromise.