A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 3 days postpartum and is breastfeeding.Her fundus is three fingerbreadths below the umbilicus, and her lochia rubra is moderate.Her breasts feel hard and warm.Which of the following recommendations should the nurse give the client?
Obtain a prescription for an antibiotic.
Express milk from both breasts.
Wear a nipple shield.
Apply a heating pad to her breasts.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Obtaining a prescription for an antibiotic is not the first recommendation for a client who is 3 days postpartum and breastfeeding with hard and warm breasts. Antibiotics are typically prescribed if there is a confirmed infection, such as mastitis, which is characterized by symptoms like fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. In this case, the client is experiencing normal postpartum breast engorgement, which does not require antibiotics.
Choice B rationale
Expressing milk from both breasts is the correct recommendation. Breast engorgement is common in the early postpartum period as the milk comes in. Expressing milk, either by breastfeeding frequently or using a breast pump, helps to relieve the fullness, reduce discomfort, and maintain milk production.
Choice C rationale
Wearing a nipple shield is not recommended for breast engorgement. Nipple shields are typically used for issues like latch difficulties or sore nipples, not for relieving engorgement. Using a nipple shield without proper guidance can potentially interfere with milk transfer and breastfeeding success.
Choice D rationale
Applying a heating pad to the breasts is not recommended for engorgement. Heat can increase blood flow and exacerbate swelling. Instead, cold compresses or cold cabbage leaves are often recommended to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
At 1 cm above the umbilicus is the expected position of the uterine fundus 12 hours postpartum. After delivery, the fundus is typically at the level of the umbilicus and then descends approximately 1 cm per day. At 12 hours postpartum, it is normal for the fundus to be slightly above the umbilicus.
Choice B rationale
One fingerbreadth above the symphysis pubis is not the expected position of the fundus 12 hours postpartum. This position is more typical several days postpartum as the uterus continues to involute and return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Choice C rationale
To the right of the umbilicus is not a normal finding and may indicate a full bladder, which can displace the uterus. The nurse should assist the client to void and then reassess the fundal position.
Choice D rationale
Three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus is not expected 12 hours postpartum. This position may indicate uterine atony or subinvolution, which requires further assessment and intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Staying home until one week after delivery is not a specific intervention for postpartum depression. Social support and monitoring are more effective strategies.
Choice B rationale
While adequate rest is important, advising to sleep as much as possible is not a targeted intervention for postpartum depression. Structured support and counseling are more beneficial.
Choice C rationale
Returning to work two weeks after delivery is not advisable for someone with a history of postpartum depression. Early return to work can increase stress and exacerbate symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Contacting a crisis counselor once a week provides structured support and monitoring, which is crucial for managing postpartum depression. Regular counseling helps in early identification and management of symptoms.