A practical nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is 12 hours postpartum following a spontaneous vaginal birth, along with her term newborn. Which of the following actions by the practical nurse are appropriate? Select all that apply.
- Reinforce the registered nurse's previous teaching regarding proper newborn latch and breastfeeding positioning.Answer
- Assist the client with ambulation to the bathroom to promote early voiding and prevent falls.Answer
- Apply an ice pack to the client's perineum to help reduce localized swelling and provide comfort.Answer
- DPerform the initial comprehensive postpartum assessment to determine the client's risk for hemorrhage.
- EImmediately notify the healthcare provider that the newborn's hands and feet have a bluish discoloration.
- FDelay reporting a fully saturated perineal pad to the registered nurse because the client's current vital signs are stable.
Answer
The appropriate actions for the practical nurse include reinforcing previous teaching regarding breastfeeding, assisting the client with ambulation to the bathroom, and applying a perineal ice pack for comfort.
The practical nurse operates safely by prioritizing basic care, comfort, and educational reinforcement within their scope of practice. Reinforcing teaching previously initiated by the registered nurse, assisting with safe ambulation to prevent falls, and applying ice packs for perineal comfort are all appropriate, standard interventions for a client who is 12 hours postpartum.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Practical Nurse Scope of Practice in Postpartum and Newborn Care