On her second postpartum day, a woman complains of cramping abdominal pains. What should the nurse tell her about these pains?

a. These pains are normal and persist for about 6 weeks.
b. These contractions are usually relieved by breastfeeding.
c. You are having uterine contractions that prevent bleeding.
d. If you have been constipated, you may need a laxative.


ANS: C
Cramping abdominal pains, often called "afterpains," reflect contraction of uterine muscle fibers to prevent excessive blood loss. They are related to the release of oxytocin and increase during breastfeeding. The pain usually lasts 2 to 3 days only.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

Janice is being transported after a fall from a horse. The physician suspects a spinal injury. Which piece of equipment must be in place prior to transport?

A) Cervical collar B) Splint C) Cast D) Halo

Nursing

Statements that describe values may include which of the following? Select all that apply

a. Values are concrete concepts that reflect what is meaningful and important to individuals. b. Values are learned in conscious and unconscious ways and become a part of a person's makeup. c. Values provide direction and meaning to life. d. Values may be expressed overtly or in an indirect way. e. Values have little influence over an individuals' choices.

Nursing

During occupational therapy a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia sits staring at a piece of paper. Which response is most therapeutic at this time?

a. "If you prefer to sit and stare for a time, it is acceptable for you to leave.". b. "You seem immobilized by anxiety. Is there anything I can do to help?" c. "Are you having trouble deciding where you want to glue that piece?" d. "Rub the glue stick on the back of the paper.".

Nursing

The nurse manager suspects the nursing staff is experiencing burnout because of complaints and an increase in absenteeism. The nurses also appear tired and anxious. What can the manager do to help reduce this burnout?

1. Ask the physician staff to take over some of the tasks they routinely ask the nurses to do. 2. Make certain that the nurses are well prepared for their responsibilities. 3. Assign each nurse to spend 30 minutes with the hospital psychologist daily. 4. Ask administration to require 30 minutes of exercise at the end of each shift.

Nursing