A nurse in a clinic is caring for a client who is 4 weeks postpartum following the birth of a healthy newborn. The client reports feeling “down and sad,” having no energy, and wanting to cry. Which of the following is a priority action by the nurse?
Ask the client if she has thoughts of or considered harming herself or her newborn.
Anticipate a prescription by the provider for an antidepressant.
Assist the family to identify prior use of positive coping skills in family crises.
Reinforce postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Asking the client if she has thoughts of or considered harming herself or her newborn is the priority action. This assessment is crucial for identifying postpartum depression and potential risks to the client and her newborn. Early identification and intervention can prevent harm.
Choice B rationale
Anticipating a prescription for an antidepressant is important but secondary to assessing immediate safety concerns. Medication can be part of the treatment plan after assessing the client’s mental state.
Choice C rationale
Assisting the family to identify prior use of positive coping skills is beneficial for long-term management but is not the immediate priority. The nurse must first ensure the client’s and newborn’s safety.
Choice D rationale
Reinforcing postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching is important for overall care but does not address the immediate concern of potential harm due to postpartum depression.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ensuring the newborn has a successful latch is crucial for preventing and treating sore and cracked nipples. A poor latch can cause nipple trauma and pain.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the length of time between feedings is not recommended as it can lead to engorgement and further complications. Frequent breastfeeding helps maintain milk supply and prevents issues like mastitis.
Choice C rationale
Applying mineral oil to the nipples is not recommended. Instead, using expressed breast milk or medical-grade lanolin can promote healing.
Choice D rationale
Keeping the nipples covered between breastfeeding sessions is not necessary and can sometimes exacerbate the problem. Allowing the nipples to air dry or using hydrogel pads can be more beneficial.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the most reliable methods of contraception. It is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. IUDs can be hormonal or non-hormonal (copper). Hormonal IUDs release progestin, which thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation. Copper IUDs release copper ions, which are toxic to sperm. Both types of IUDs are over 99% effective and can last for several years, making them a highly reliable form of contraception.
Choice B rationale
Oral contraceptives, commonly known as birth control pills, are also effective but require daily adherence. They contain hormones (estrogen and progestin) that prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. However, their effectiveness can decrease with missed doses, certain medications, or gastrointestinal disturbances. With typical use, their effectiveness is around 91%, meaning 9 out of 100 women may become pregnant each year.
Choice C rationale
Male condoms are a barrier method of contraception that prevent sperm from entering the uterus. They are also effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, their effectiveness can be compromised by improper use, breakage, or slippage. With typical use, male condoms are about 85% effective, meaning 15 out of 100 women may become pregnant each year.
Choice D rationale
A diaphragm with spermicide is a barrier method of contraception. The diaphragm is a shallow, dome-shaped cup inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix, and spermicide is applied to kill sperm. Its effectiveness depends on correct and consistent use. With typical use, diaphragms are about 88% effective, meaning 12 out of 100 women may become pregnant each year. Additionally, diaphragms do not protect against STIs.