The practical nurse (PN) determines that a client who is one day postpartum has a moderate amount of lochia rubra and the uterus is firm, dextroverted, and three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus. Which should be the PN's initial action?

A. Massage the uterus to decrease atony: Uterine massage is appropriate if the uterus is soft or boggy, indicating atony. In this scenario, the uterus is firm, so massage is not immediately necessary and could be uncomfortable without addressing the underlying issue. B. Assess the bladder for distension: A firm uterus that is dextroverted suggests the bladder may be full, displacing the uterus to the right. Assessing and relieving bladder distension is the priority, as it can correct uterine position and prevent potential postpartum complications such as bleeding. C. Provide a stool softener for constipation: While preventing constipation is important postpartum, it is not an immediate priority in managing uterine position or potential bleeding. Addressing bladder distension takes precedence to ensure uterine involution. D. Check the hemoglobin to determine uterine hemorrhage: Monitoring hemoglobin is important if bleeding is excessive, but initial assessment should focus on correctable mechanical causes, such as a distended bladder, before attributing findings to hemorrhage.