Obstetric Nurse Test Obstetric Nurse Postpartum Complications 5

Question 1

A postpartum patient is diagnosed with HELLP syndrome on day 2. Which lab trend would the nurse MOST expect to see?

Accepted Answer

Hemolysis on peripheral smear, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets

Answer

HELLP is defined by hemolysis (elevated LDH, schistocytes), elevated liver enzymes (AST/ALT), and low platelets (<100,000/µL).

Question 2

A breastfeeding patient on day 4 postpartum develops a firm, painful, erythematous area on one breast but is afebrile and otherwise well. This presentation MOST suggests:

Accepted Answer

Plugged milk duct, managed with warm compresses and frequent feeding

Answer

A localized, tender lump without systemic symptoms in a breastfeeding patient on day 4 is most consistent with a plugged duct, which resolves with heat, massage, and frequent emptying.

Question 3

Which assessment technique should the nurse use to evaluate uterine involution and document fundal findings accurately?

Accepted Answer

With the patient supine and bladder emptied, support the lower uterine segment and palpate the fundus to assess firmness, position, and height in finger-breadths below the umbilicus

Answer

Accurate fundal assessment requires a supine position with an emptied bladder; the lower segment is supported to prevent uterine inversion while firmness and location are assessed.

Question 4

A postpartum patient develops Sheehan syndrome after massive hemorrhage. Which long-term consequence is she at risk for if the condition goes unrecognized?

Accepted Answer

Panhypopituitarism leading to failure of lactation, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency

Answer

Sheehan syndrome results from pituitary necrosis due to hypovolemic shock, causing deficiency of multiple pituitary hormones including prolactin, TSH, ACTH, FSH, and LH.

Question 5

A patient's lochia has a strong, fishy odor on postpartum day 4. The MOST appropriate nursing action is:

Accepted Answer

Document the finding and notify the provider, as malodorous lochia may indicate uterine infection

Answer

Normal lochia has a fleshy, menstrual-like odor; a fishy or foul odor is abnormal and may signal endometritis or other infection requiring evaluation.

Obstetric Nurse Test Practice Test

Obstetric Nurse Test Practice Test

Obstetric Nurse Test Obstetric Nurse Postpartum Complications 5