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
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.
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.