NCLEX: A postpartum client on the mother-baby unit is being evaluated for postpartum hemorrhage risk. Assessment data in…

Maternal-newborn nursing Clinical Judgment Health Promotion and Maintenance Reduction of Risk Potential

Case Study

A postpartum client on the mother-baby unit is being evaluated for postpartum hemorrhage risk. Assessment data include blood pressure 88/54 mm Hg, heart rate 128/min, and saturated perineal pads. Using the clinical judgment model, what is the nurse's first step?

Question

A. Implement the first intervention on the existing care plan without reviewing new data.
B. Evaluate discharge readiness before addressing acute findings.
C. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.
D. Document the assessment at the end of the shift and continue the prior plan.

Rationale

Correct answer: C. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.

Rationale: NCSBN clinical judgment begins with recognizing and analyzing cues before taking action or evaluating outcomes.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Maternal emergencies