A breastfeeding mother calls the obstetrician's office with a complaint of pain in one breast. Upon inspection, a diagnosis of mastitis is made.
Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate?
Advise the woman to apply ice packs to her breasts.
Encourage the woman to breastfeed frequently.
Inform the woman that she should wean immediately.
Direct the woman to notify her pediatrician as soon as possible.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Applying ice packs can help reduce pain and swelling, but it is not the best intervention for a breastfeeding mother with mastitis. Ice can constrict blood vessels and may hinder milk
flow, which can exacerbate the condition.
Choice B rationale
Frequent breastfeeding helps to empty the affected breast and prevent milk stasis, reducing the risk of abscess formation and promoting faster healing. The mechanical action of
nursing can help clear the infection and provide relief.
Choice C rationale
Weaning immediately is not advised as it can lead to engorgement and milk stasis, worsening the infection. Continuing to breastfeed ensures the breast is regularly emptied, aiding
in recovery.
Choice D rationale
While notifying the pediatrician may be necessary if the baby is affected, it does not directly address the mother's condition or provide immediate relief. Primary management focuses
on treating the infection and maintaining milk flow.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Massaging the fundus can help contract the uterus and reduce bleeding. Ensuring IV access is crucial for administering medications rapidly. Methylergonovine (Methergine) and oxytocin help stimulate uterine contractions and reduce postpartum hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening.
Choice B rationale
Administering pain medication might be necessary, but it doesn't address the immediate issue of uterine atony and hemorrhage. Surgical intervention is a last resort and should be prepared for only if medical management fails.
Choice C rationale
Reassessing vital signs and monitoring is important, but it doesn't provide an immediate solution to the bleeding and uterine atony. Immediate action to contract the uterus is crucial.
Choice D rationale
Contacting the attending physician is important, but immediate intervention to stop the bleeding and address uterine atony is critical to prevent further complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Labor dystocia involves prolonged labor. Her fast delivery history suggests the opposite, indicating rapid labor progress.
Choice B rationale
Rapid labor progression, frequent contractions, and previous short labors suggest she is at risk for precipitous labor, requiring immediate preparation for delivery.
Choice C rationale
Cephalopelvic disproportion indicates size mismatch between baby and pelvis, not rapid labor. Her history of quick deliveries does not align with this condition.
Choice D rationale
False labor typically involves irregular, less intense contractions. Her regular, intense contractions and labor history suggest active labor, not false labor.