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Multiple Choice

What is the key nursing action to prevent uterine atony-related hemorrhage after delivery?

Maintaining uterine tone to prevent postpartum hemorrhage from uterine atony is the key. The best nursing action is to administer uterotonic medications as prescribed and perform fundal massage as needed. Uterotonic drugs stimulate the uterus to contract, which compresses the blood vessels and reduces bleeding. Fundal massage physically prompts the uterus to firm up, helping to regain Tone and control hemorrhage if the uterus feels boggy. After delivery, the uterus should be midline and firm. If it’s soft or boggy, gently massage the uterus to encourage contraction and re-check its firmness. Along with medications, ensuring the bladder is empty helps the uterus stay in the correct position and contract effectively. Monitor vital signs, lochia, and fundal height regularly, and watch for signs of excessive bleeding or adverse medication effects. Why the other actions aren’t appropriate for preventing atony-related bleeding: leg elevation with fluid restriction does not address uterine contraction or bleeding control; applying cold to the abdomen targets cramping rather than uterine tone; delaying breastfeeding removes a natural stimulus that promotes uterine contraction and can worsen atony.

Maintaining uterine tone to prevent postpartum hemorrhage from uterine atony is the key. The best nursing action is to administer uterotonic medications as prescribed and perform fundal massage as needed. Uterotonic drugs stimulate the uterus to contract, which compresses the blood vessels and reduces bleeding. Fundal massage physically prompts the uterus to firm up, helping to regain Tone and control hemorrhage if the uterus feels boggy.

After delivery, the uterus should be midline and firm. If it’s soft or boggy, gently massage the uterus to encourage contraction and re-check its firmness. Along with medications, ensuring the bladder is empty helps the uterus stay in the correct position and contract effectively. Monitor vital signs, lochia, and fundal height regularly, and watch for signs of excessive bleeding or adverse medication effects.

Why the other actions aren’t appropriate for preventing atony-related bleeding: leg elevation with fluid restriction does not address uterine contraction or bleeding control; applying cold to the abdomen targets cramping rather than uterine tone; delaying breastfeeding removes a natural stimulus that promotes uterine contraction and can worsen atony.