A Patient Has Been Treated with Oxytocin (Pitocin) for Postpartum

Multiple Choice

A patient has been treated with oxytocin (Pitocin) for postpartum hemorrhage. Bleeding has stabilized and slowed down considerably. The peripad in place reveals a moderate amount of bright red blood, with no clots expelled when massaging the fundus. The patient now complains of having difficulty breathing. Auscultation of breath sounds reveals adventitious sounds. Based on this clinical presentation, the priority nursing action is to

A) evaluate intake and output of the past 12 hours following birth.
B) initiate a rapid response intervention.
C) obtain an order from the physician for type and crossmatch of 2 units packed red blood cells (PRBCs) .
D) reposition the patient and reassess in 15 minutes. Initiate frequent vital sign assessments.