A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who is experiencing a postpartum hemorrhage. For which of the following findings should the nurse proceed with caution when administering methylergonovine?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Preeclampsia: Methylergonovine causes vasoconstriction and increases blood pressure, which can be dangerous in clients with preeclampsia. Administering this medication in such cases can elevate the risk of stroke or seizure due to worsening hypertension. B. An allergy to penicillin: Methylergonovine is not a penicillin-based medication, so a penicillin allergy does not present a known contraindication or concern. Caution is unnecessary unless there is a known allergy to ergot alkaloids. C. Gestational diabetes mellitus: Methylergonovine does not significantly impact blood glucose levels or insulin sensitivity. Therefore, it can be used safely in clients with gestational diabetes when indicated for hemorrhage control. D. Cholelithiasis: There is no direct interaction or exacerbation of gallbladder disease with methylergonovine. The medication primarily acts on uterine smooth muscle and vascular tone, not on the biliary system.