Question

The nurse is caring for a client in the postpartum period immediately after delivery. The nurse performs an assessment on the client and prepares to assess uterine involution by taking which action?

1. Monitoring the vital signs
2. Palpating the uterine fundus
3. Auscultating the bowel sounds
4. Assessing the amount of drainage on the peripad

Answer 1

To assess uterine involution post-delivery, a nurse should palpate the uterine fundus. This checks for uterus size reduction and firmness, vital for preventing postpartum hemorrhage. Breastfeeding enhances this process due to oxytocin-induced contractions.

Step-by-step explanation:

To assess uterine involution in the postpartum period after delivery, the nurse should take action number 2: Palpating the uterine fundus. Uterine involution is the process by which the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size and is facilitated by contractions that continue for several hours following birth. Palpation of the uterine fundus allows the nurse to measure the firmness, size, and position of the uterus, ensuring that it is contracting appropriately and reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. If fragments of the placenta remain, they can cause postpartum hemorrhage, hence it is also crucial for the obstetrician to examine the expelled placenta and membranes to ensure they are intact. Breastfeeding aids in this involution process due to the release of oxytocin which promotes uterine contractions.