Relias Nursing Care of Patient with Obstetric (OB) & Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) Assessment Practice Test

The transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) is essential for managing potential coagulopathy during ongoing postpartum hemorrhage because it helps to rapidly replenish the lost red blood cells and improve oxygen-carrying capacity. Postpartum hemorrhage can lead to significant blood loss, resulting in anemia and potentially compromising hemostasis if not addressed promptly.

In situations where coagulopathy may be present, particularly when dealing with ongoing bleeding, it is crucial to not only replace volume but also to ensure adequate red blood cell levels in the circulating blood. This, in turn, helps to support normal clotting mechanisms and prevent the further progression of coagulopathy that could exacerbate bleeding. In instances of severe hemorrhage, the patient's coagulation factors can be depleted, hence the need for interventions aimed at correcting both the volume deficit and any coagulopathy that might arise.

While monitoring blood pressure and performing uterine massage are important components of overall postpartum care, they do not directly address the management of coagulopathy like a transfusion of PRBCs does. Monitoring blood pressure allows healthcare providers to assess hemodynamic status but must be coupled with active interventions such as blood product administration in the presence of significant hemorrhage. Uterine massage is primarily