A nurse is caring for a client who is breastfeeding and states that her nipples are sore and cracking. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Assess and ensure the newborn has a successful latch.
Recommend increasing the length of time between feedings.
Educate the client to apply mineral oil to the nipples between feedings.
Educate the client to keep the nipples covered between breastfeeding sessions.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The client is exhibiting expected assessment findings. Three days postpartum, it is normal for the fundus to be three fingerbreadths below the umbilicus, lochia rubra to be light, and the breasts to be full and warm to palpation without evidence of redness or pain. These findings indicate that the uterus is involuting properly, and the breasts are producing milk for breastfeeding.
Choice B rationale
The client is not exhibiting indications of mastitis. Mastitis is characterized by breast tenderness, redness, warmth, and pain, often accompanied by fever and flu-like symptoms. The absence of these symptoms suggests that the client does not have mastitis.
Choice C rationale
There is no indication that the client should be advised to remove her nursing bra. A well-fitting nursing bra can provide support and comfort during breastfeeding. The client should continue to wear a nursing bra as needed.
Choice D rationale
There is no indication that the client should be advised to stop breastfeeding. The assessment findings suggest that breastfeeding is going well, and the client should be encouraged to continue breastfeeding to provide optimal nutrition for the infant.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Asking the client to rate her pain is important for assessing discomfort, but it does not address the immediate issue of a deviated fundus. A deviated fundus often indicates a full bladder, which can impede uterine contraction and increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
Encouraging the client to perform Kegel exercises is beneficial for pelvic floor strengthening but does not address the immediate concern of a deviated fundus. The priority is to ensure the uterus can contract properly.
Choice C rationale
Assisting the client to the bathroom to void is the correct action. A full bladder can displace the uterus, preventing it from contracting effectively and increasing the risk of hemorrhage. Voiding helps the uterus return to its proper position and function.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging the client to move to the left lateral position may provide comfort but does not address the underlying issue of a full bladder causing uterine displacement.