What is the initial intervention for a soft, boggy uterus after childbirth?

The initial intervention for a soft, boggy uterus after childbirth is to massage the fundus until it becomes firm. This procedure is vital because a boggy uterus often indicates uterine atony, which is a primary cause of postpartum hemorrhage. By applying fundal massage, the nurse stimulates the uterine muscle to contract, helping to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding and promote uterine tone. This intervention is typically performed immediately after delivery and as needed to ensure that the uterus maintains the necessary firmness for effective contraction.

Other options, while they might be helpful in certain situations, do not directly address the urgency of uterine atony. For instance, applying an ice compress or a warm compress is not a primary intervention for managing a boggy uterus. Similarly, administering pain relief medication may be appropriate based on the patient's needs, but it does not directly resolve the problem of uterine atony. Thus, massage of the fundus is considered the most critical and immediate step in ensuring the safety and recovery of the postpartum patient.