NSG 3500 EXAM 3 2026/2027 | NURSING PRACTICE –
MATERNAL HEALTH | 40 VERIFIED Q&A | DETAILED
RATIONALES | PASS GUARANTEED – A+ GRADED
SECTION 1: POSTPARTUM PERIOD & MATERNAL ASSESSMENT – Questions 1-15
Q1: Postpartum Period Duration
The postpartum period, also known as the puerperium, is clinically defined as which timeframe?
A. 2 weeks following childbirth
B. 4 weeks following childbirth
C. 6 weeks following childbirth
D. 8 weeks following childbirth
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The postpartum period (puerperium) is clinically defined as the six-week period following
childbirth. During this time, the mother's body undergoes significant physiological and psychological
changes as it returns to a non-pregnant state .
Q2: Involution of the Uterus
What is involution of the uterus?
A. The process of uterine infection after birth
B. Contraction after birth to prevent bleeding and return to prepregnancy size
C. The separation of the placenta from the uterine wall
D. The onset of lactation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Involution is the process by which the uterus returns to its prepregnancy size and location
through sustained contractions. These contractions also constrict blood vessels at the placental site
to minimize postpartum blood loss .
Q3: Early Maternal Assessment Frequency
During the immediate postpartum period, how frequently should vital signs be assessed during the
first 2 hours?
A. Every 5 minutes
B. Every 15 minutes
C. Every 30 minutes
D. Every hour
Correct Answer: B
, 2
Rationale: In the immediate postpartum period, vital signs should be assessed every 15 minutes for
the first 2 hours to detect complications such as hemorrhage or infection early .
Q4: Normal Postpartum Temperature
A postpartum patient has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C). How should the nurse interpret this
finding?
A. Immediate intervention is needed
B. It is a normal finding after delivery
C. It indicates sepsis
D. It requires antibiotic therapy
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) can be normal after delivery due to dehydration or the
labor process. Anything over 100.4°F is a red flag for infection .
Q5: REEDA Scale Assessment
The nurse is assessing a postpartum patient's perineum using the REEDA scale. What does REEDA
stand for?
A. Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation
B. Redness, Edema, Erythema, Drainage, Approximation
C. Redness, Effusion, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Adhesion
D. Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Drainage, Approximation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The REEDA scale assesses Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, and Approximation of
wound edges. It is used to identify signs of infection or poor healing .
Q6: Fundal Assessment Purpose
What is the primary purpose of fundal assessment in the postpartum period?
A. To assess bladder distention
B. To ensure uterine contraction and prevent hemorrhage
C. To assess bowel function
D. To determine the need for pain medication
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Fundal assessment ensures uterine contraction to prevent atony and hemorrhage. A
boggy uterus indicates inadequate contraction and risk for bleeding .
Q7: Lochia Rubra Characteristics