Which of the following findings would be abnormal in a postpartal woman?

Question

Options

• AChills shortly after delivery
• BPulse rate of 60 bpm in morning on first postdelivery day
• CUrinary output of 3000 mL on the second day after delivery
• DAn oral temperature of 101F (38.3C) on the third day after delivery

• A
  6% (2)
• B
  20% (7)
• C
  11% (4)
• D
  63% (22)

Explanation

(A) Frequently the mother experiences a shaking chill immediately after delivery, which is related to a nervous response or to vasomotor changes. If not followed by a fever, it is clinically (B) The pulse rate during the immediate postpartal period may be low but presents no cause for alarm. The body attempts to adapt to the decreased pressures intra-abdominally as well as from the reduction of blood flow to the vascular bed. (C) Urinary output increases during the early postpartal period (12-24 hours) owing to diuresis. The kidneys must eliminate an estimated 2000-3000 mL of extracellular fluid associated with a normalpregnancy. (D) A temperature of 100.4F (38C) may occur after delivery as a result of exertion and dehydration of labor. However, any temperature greater than 100.4F needs further investigation to identify any infectious process.

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