ATI PN Maternity
ATI PN Maternity ( 62 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has unrelieved episiotomy pain 8 hr following delivery. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Placing a soft pillow under the client's buttocks (Choice A) might provide some comfort, but it won't directly address the unrelieved episiotomy pain. The pillow is more commonly used for providing support and pressure relief in cases like hemorrhoids or after rectal surgeries.
Applying an ice pack to the perineum (Choice B) could help reduce swelling and inflammation, which might be beneficial in the immediate postpartum period. However, since the client's pain is unrelieved after 8 hours, it suggests the need for additional measures beyond cold therapy.
Positioning a heating lamp toward the episiotomy (Choice C) is not recommended. Heat can exacerbate inflammation and may increase pain in the perineal area. This approach is generally not used for managing postpartum pain or episiotomy discomfort.
Preparing a warm sitz bath (Choice D) is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation. A warm sitz bath can promote healing and provide relief from episiotomy pain by promoting blood flow to the area, reducing muscle tension, and soothing the tissues. It is a widely accepted and effective intervention for postpartum perineal discomfort.
Choice A rationale:
Placing a soft pillow under the client's buttocks (Choice A) might provide some comfort, but it won't directly address the unrelieved episiotomy pain. The pillow is more commonly used for providing support and pressure relief in cases like haemorrhoids or after rectal surgeries.
Choice B rationale:
Applying an ice pack to the perineum (Choice B) could help reduce swelling and inflammation, which might be beneficial in the immediate postpartum period. However, since the client's pain is unrelieved after 8 hours, it suggests the need for additional measures beyond cold therapy.
Choice C rationale:
Positioning a heating lamp toward the episiotomy (Choice C) is not recommended. Heat can exacerbate inflammation and may increase pain in the perineal area. This approach is generally not used for managing postpartum pain or episiotomy discomfort.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing a warm sitz bath (Choice D) is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation. A warm sitz bath can promote healing and provide relief from episiotomy pain by promoting blood flow to the area, reducing muscle tension, and soothing the tissues. It is a widely accepted and effective intervention for postpartum perineal discomfort.