Question

Which of the following assessment findings in a postpartum client would be most alarming?

A) Leg pain on ambulation with mild ankle edema
B) Calf pain with dorsiflexion of the foot.
C) Perineal pain with swelling along the episiotomy
D) Sharp stabbing chest pain with shortness of breath

Answer 1

The most alarming assessment finding in a postpartum client would be sharp stabbing chest pain with shortness of breath, which could indicate a pulmonary embolism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Of the options given, the assessment finding that would be most alarming in a postpartum client is D) Sharp stabbing chest pain with shortness of breath.

This could be indicative of a serious condition such as a pulmonary embolism, which is a blockage in one of the blood vessels in the lungs.

Chest pain and shortness of breath are common symptoms of a pulmonary embolism and require immediate medical attention.

The other options A) Leg pain on ambulation with mild ankle edema, B) Calf pain with dorsiflexion of the foot, and C) Perineal pain with swelling along the episiotomy are all expected findings in the postpartum period and are generally not considered alarming.