The nurse is caring for a postpartal client who is experiencing afterpains following the birth of her third child. Which of the following comfort measures should the nurse implement to decrease her pain? Select all that apply

Question

1. Offer warm blankets for her abdomen.
2. Call the physician to report this finding.
3. Inform her that this is not normal, and she will need an oxytocic agent.
4. Massage the fundus of the uterus gently and observe lochia for clots.
5. Administer a mild analgesic at bedtime to ensure rest.
Correct

Answer 1

1; 4; 5
Rationale:
1. The nurse should offer comfort measures that address the discomfort of afterpains—warm blankets, massage, and a mild analgesic will decrease pain.
2. It is not necessary to call the physician to report this finding.
3. It is not necessary to inform the client that this is not normal and that she will need an oxytocic agent.
4. The nurse should offer comfort measures that address the discomfort of afterpains—warm blankets, massage, and a mild analgesic will decrease pain.
5. The nurse should offer comfort measures that address the discomfort of afterpains—warm blankets, massage, and a mild analgesic will decrease pain.