The postpartum client, who had a forceps-assisted vaginal birth 4 hours ago, tells the nurse that she is having continuing perineal pain rated at 7 out of 10 and rectal pressure. An oral analgesic was given and ice applied to the perineum earlier. What should the nurse do now?

Reexamination of the perineum should be completed before calling the HCP to report the pain level. A forceps-assisted delivery can increase the risk of hematoma development. Rectal pressure and perineal pain can indicate a hematoma in the posterior vaginal wall. The nurse should closely examine the perineum and the vaginal introitus for ecchymosis and a bulging mass. Ambulation would not help the perineal pain. A stool softener would be appropriate to avoid constipation but would not help the immediate problem.