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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using a bladder scanner to assess for urinary retention is a non-invasive and appropriate intervention. It helps determine the volume of urine in the bladder and can guide further management. This method avoids unnecessary catheterization and reduces the risk of infection.
Choice B rationale
Catheterizing to empty the bladder is a common intervention for urinary retention. However, it should be done with caution and only when necessary to avoid the risk of infection. In this scenario, it is not contraindicated but should be considered after other non-invasive methods have been tried.
Choice C rationale
Placing peppermint oil on a cotton ball and placing it in the urinary “hat” while the client is on the toilet is a non-invasive method that can help stimulate urination through the scent of peppermint. This method is safe and can be effective for some clients.
Choice D rationale
Assisting the client back to bed and telling her to try to void again in 2 hours is contraindicated because it delays the intervention for a distended bladder. A distended bladder can cause discomfort and potential complications, so timely intervention is necessary.