MEDizzy - A registered nurse (RN) is caring for a postpartum client

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Care of Childbearing Families

A registered nurse (RN) is caring for a postpartum client who is 16 hours postdelivery. A student nurse is assisting with the care. The RN evaluates that the student needs more education about uterine assess- ment when the student is observed doing which of the following?

ExplanationFor uterine assessment, the client should be positioned in a supine position so the height of the uterus is not influenced by an elevated position. The abdomen should be observed for contour to detect distention and for the appearance of striae or a diastasis. When beginning the assess- ment, one hand should be placed at the base of the uterus just above the symphysis pubis to support the lower uterine segment. This prevents the inadvertent inversion of the uterus during palpation. Once the lower hand is in place, the fundus of the uterus can be gently palpated.