Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 2038 of 2368

On the first day after birth, a client has 3+ deep tendon reflexes and sustained clonus. What should the nurse do?

  1. Document these as normal findings on the first day after birth
  2. Notify the provider because preeclampsia is suspected
  3. Apply sequential compression devices to both lower legs
  4. Massage the lower legs to relieve the muscle tightness
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Correct answer: Notify the provider because preeclampsia is suspected

Clonus or hyperreflexia increases the risk of seizures and requires provider notification for suspected preeclampsia.

Source: Nursing Health Promotion (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2025), Postpartum Care: EXTREMITIES. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026