A nurse in an antepartum clinic is reinforcing teaching with a pregnant client about breastfeeding. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice B reason: The nurse should ask the client if they have had thoughts about harming their infant. This is a crucial action because the client's statement suggests they may be experiencing feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt as a mother, which could potentially lead to more serious thoughts or actions. By directly asking about thoughts of harming the baby, the nurse can assess the client's mental and emotional state more thoroughly and determine if there is a risk of harm to the infant.

Choice A reason:

The nurse should advise the client that most new mothers experience these feelings. This response acknowledges the client's feelings of inadequacy and normalizes their experience, letting them know that it is common for new mothers to have doubts and insecurities. This validation can help the client feel less alone and more understood, promoting a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.

Choice C reason:

The nurse should explain to the client that they are experiencing the "baby blues.” This is a valid option because the client's statement indicates they may be experiencing mood swings, sadness, and emotional sensitivity, which are typical symptoms of the baby blues. Providing this information can help the client understand that these feelings are transient and often related to hormonal changes after childbirth.

Choice D reason:

Taking the client to the emergency department is not warranted based solely on the information provided. The client's statement does not indicate an immediate danger to themselves or their baby. However, if during the assessment (including choice B), the nurse identifies any signs of potential harm to the infant or the client, further action may be necessary, such as involving appropriate mental health professionals or support services.

Choice A reason:

The nurse should provide the client with a carbonated beverage as a nonpharmacologic intervention to reduce pain from intestinal gas. Carbonated beverages, like soda or sparkling water, can help alleviate gas by promoting burping, which releases trapped gas from the digestive system. The effervescence of the carbonated drink can help relieve the discomfort caused by accumulated gas, offering relief to the client.

Choice B reason:

Encouraging the client to lie on their right side is not an effective nonpharmacologic intervention for reducing pain from intestinal gas. Although positioning can sometimes aid in relieving discomfort, lying on the right side does not specifically target the reduction of gas. Therefore, it is not the most appropriate choice in this scenario.

Choice C reason:

Encouraging the client to ambulate is a beneficial nonpharmacologic intervention for various post-operative conditions. However, when it comes to reducing pain from intestinal gas, it may not be as effective as other options. While movement can aid in gas passage through the digestive system, it might not be the most immediate or direct solution for alleviating the client's discomfort.

Choice D reason:

Providing the client with straws for beverages does not directly address the issue of intestinal gas. It is an unrelated intervention and may not provide any significant relief for the client's discomfort.