A postpartum patient is hemorrhaging despite receiving several medications and fundal massage. What ...

ANS: B
If more conservative methods do not control postpartum hemorrhage, invasive surgical procedures are indicated. Procedures include the placement of uterine packing, balloon tamponade, ligation of the uterine arteries, hypogastric artery ligation, uterine suturing, embolization procedures, and hysterectomy. The nurse needs to facilitate obtaining informed consent for an emergency invasive procedure. The nurse should already be weighing pads and linens. Placing the woman on her left side will not impact the bleeding. IV solutions should be normal saline, particularly if the woman will be receiving blood transfusions.