Which assessment finding after a cesarean birth requires immediate action?

Prepare for the Delegation Health Management Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with explanations and insights. Equip yourself for success!

The assessment finding that requires immediate action is a heart rate of 132 beats per minute coupled with a blood pressure of 84/60 mm Hg. This situation indicates that the patient is potentially experiencing hypovolemic shock or significant cardiovascular instability. A heart rate above the normal range can suggest that the body is attempting to compensate for a decreased volume of blood (as indicated by the hypotension in the blood pressure reading). Hypotension combined with tachycardia is often a clinical sign of hemorrhage or a serious complication following surgery.

In the context of post-cesarean care, these vital sign changes can signify substantial blood loss, which could endanger the life of the patient. Immediate intervention is crucial to stabilize the patient's condition, which may involve fluid resuscitation and monitoring for further complications.

Other findings, such as an oral temperature of 100.2°F, a gush of blood upon standing, and reported abdominal pain, may indicate issues that require attention, but they do not present the same level of immediate risk as those indicated by the abnormal vital signs described.

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