Final answer:
Increased blood pressure is the key finding to monitor for after delivery, as it may indicate serious maternal complications such as preeclampsia. Janine received pitocin to stimulate contractions and progress labor, which was not effectively moving forward.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should be most alert for increased blood pressure as it can indicate preeclampsia, which is a serious complication that can occur after delivery. Sudden weight loss and a decreased pulse rate are not typically associated with postpartum complications. Diminished uterine contractions can be a sign of uterine atony, leading to postpartum hemorrhage, but this complication usually presents with excessive rather than diminished bleeding.
In the context of the other information provided, Janine was given an IV infusion of pitocin to stimulate labor because her contractions were too mild and not effectively progressing labor, as evidenced by the cervix being only 2 cm dilated despite the prolonged labor experience. Pitocin is a synthetic form of oxytocin, commonly used to induce or augment labor contractions. It can help in achieving a more regular pattern of contractions that are stronger and more effective at dilating the cervix.