The nurse includes the addition of ice sitz baths for the postpartum patient. Which assessment finding indicates the treatment has been effective?
A) No swelling or edema to the perineal area
B) Patient complains that the sitz bath is too cold.
C) Patient reports she took two sitz baths in 12 hours.
D) Edges of the perineal laceration are well approximated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sitz baths may be offered two to four times a day to women with episiotomies, painful hemorrhoids, or perineal edema. Sitz baths provide continuous circulation of water and cleanse and comfort the traumatized perineum. Cool water reduces pain caused by edema and may be most effective within the first 24 hours. Ice can be added to cool the water to a comfortable level as the woman sits in it. Approximation of the edges of a wound facilitates wound healing. The purpose of the cold sitz bath is to decrease the edema secondary to tissue trauma.

The Nurse Includes the Addition of Ice Sitz Baths for the Postpartum