A nurse is assessing a client who is 4 hr postpartum following a vaginal delivery. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Saturated perineal pad in 30 min: Heavy bleeding indicated by a saturated pad within 30 minutes suggests postpartum hemorrhage, a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent shock and complications. B. Deep tendon reflexes 4+: Hyperactive reflexes can be a sign of preeclampsia or magnesium toxicity if the client received treatment. While concerning and requiring monitoring, this is not as immediately critical as active hemorrhage. C. Fundus at level of umbilicus: A firm fundus at the umbilicus is expected about 4 hours postpartum and indicates normal uterine involution. This finding is reassuring and does not require immediate action. D. Approximated edges of episiotomy: Well-approximated episiotomy edges indicate proper healing. This is an expected finding and not a priority concern during the immediate postpartum period.