What is the first action a nurse should take when postpartum hemorrhage is suspected?

• A. Administer medication immediately
• B. Assess fundus for firmness and location
• C. Start IV fluids
• D. Notify the physician

Answer: (B)

When postpartum hemorrhage is suspected, the first action a nurse should take is to assess the fundus for firmness and location. This is crucial because uterine atony, or the failure of the uterus to contract properly, is one of the most common causes of early postpartum hemorrhage. By checking the fundus, the nurse can determine whether it is firm and midline, which would indicate proper contraction, or boggy and deviated, suggesting atony that requires immediate intervention.

Evaluating the fundus helps the nurse identify the situation promptly, which can lead to timely and effective measures to control the bleeding. If the fundus is found to be boggy, the nurse can then assist with interventions such as fundal massage or administering medications that encourage uterine contraction. Prompt assessment not only aids in diagnosing the cause of the hemorrhage but also informs subsequent nursing actions and the need for further medical intervention.