The nurse is caring for a client with a retained placenta following a noneventful vaginal birth of a full-term infant. The nurse understands which of the following is true regarding a retained placenta?
Placental fragments may be detected on an MRI or CT scan.
Nitroglycerin IV may be given to promote uterine relaxation.
Removing the remaining fragments helps lower the risk of postpartum infection.
If placental fragments remain, the uterus will feel firm due to retained fragments.
Number 2 is correct.
Tocolytics such as nitroglycerin IV may help relax the uterus. Ultrasonography is used to detect remaining fragments. After the removal of a retained placenta or fragments, the client is at continued risk of postpartum hemorrhage and infection. Retention of fragments causes the uterus to feel boggy due to uterine atony.
