Final answer:
Factors such as prolonged labor, a distended bladder, and possibly a mag sulfate infusion can increase the risk of uterine atony postpartum. Oxytocin infusion is usually preventative, while having a small for gestational age newborn is less likely to be a direct risk factor. It's essential to check that the placenta and membranes are complete post-delivery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is asking about factors that would place a postpartum client at risk for uterine atony, which is a condition where the uterus fails to contract after childbirth, increasing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. After delivery, several factors can contribute to this condition:
- Oxytocin infusion is usually administered to prevent or treat uterine atony, as it stimulates uterine contractions. It generally decreases the risk unless there is an overdose leading to uterine atony due to receptor saturation.
- Prolonged labor can lead to uterine muscle exhaustion, reducing its ability to contract effectively postpartum, thus increasing the risk of atony.
- Mag sulfate infusion is used for conditions such as preeclampsia, but it can also decrease muscle contractions and might contribute to uterine atony.
- A small for gestational age newborn would not significantly distend the uterus, so it is less likely to be a direct risk factor for uterine atony.
- A distended bladder can inhibit the uterus from contracting properly, thus increasing the risk of uterine atony.
Additionally, it is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure that the placenta and membranes are intact after delivery to prevent postpartum hemorrhage and assess for retained fragments. The process of involution, which is aided by breastfeeding, contributes to the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size and location.