Question

The nurse caring for a client with a diagnosis of subinvolution should understand that which is a primary cause of this diagnosis?

1. Afterpains
2. Increased estrogen levels
3. Increased progesterone levels
4. Retained placental fragments from delivery

Answer 1

The primary cause of subinvolution is retained placental fragments from delivery, which prevent the uterus from properly returning to its pre-pregnancy size and may lead to complications like postpartum hemorrhage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse caring for a client with a diagnosis of subinvolution should understand that retained placental fragments from delivery is a primary cause of this diagnosis. Subinvolution refers to the slower than expected return of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size after childbirth, known as involution. When fragments of the placenta remain in the uterus, they can interfere with normal contraction and retraction of the uterine muscles, preventing the uterus from shrinking back to its original size and potentially leading to postpartum hemorrhage. It is critical for the obstetrician to examine the expelled placenta and fetal membranes to ensure that they are intact to avoid such complications.