What is the first action a nurse should take when assessing a 24-hour postpartum patient with a boggy fundus?

In the context of post-delivery care, when a nurse encounters a patient with a boggy fundus, the primary action is to address any potential issues that could be contributing to uterine atony, which is often associated with bladder distension. Assisting the patient to the bathroom to void can help alleviate pressure on the uterus, allowing it to contract more effectively. A full bladder can inhibit uterine contraction, thus making massaging the fundus less effective.

Once the bladder is emptied, if the fundus remains boggy, further actions such as massaging the fundus or administering medications may be necessary. However, the initial focus on ensuring normal bladder function is crucial in this scenario. By prioritizing this step, the nurse helps provide immediate support to promote uterine tone and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.