Final answer:
The crucial nursing action after the third stage of labor is to ensure the placenta has been completely expelled and to check for any retained fragments to prevent postpartum hemorrhage and facilitate uterine involution. The correct option is A. Assess the placenta for complete expulsion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The important nursing action that occurs right after the third stage of labor is to assess the placenta for complete expulsion. The third stage of labor involves the delivery of the placenta and is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of the mother post-delivery. It is during this stage that the obstetrician or nurse must confirm that the placenta and associated fetal membranes have been entirely expelled from the uterus without any retained fragments.
If any fragments do remain, there is a risk for postpartum hemorrhage, a serious complication that can lead to significant blood loss for the mother. Additionally, this assessment helps facilitate the process of involution, where the uterus contracts to return to its pre-pregnancy size, aiding in the reduction of bleeding and the repositioning of the abdominal organs to their original locations. Breastfeeding can also aid in promoting involution and reducing postpartum bleeding.