A nurse is assessing a client who is 3 days postpartum and is breastfeeding. The nurse notes that the fundus is three fingerbreadths below the umbilicus, lochia rubra is moderate, and the breasts are hard and warm to palpation. Which of the following interpretations of these findings should the nurse make?
The client is exhibiting early indications of mastitis.
Additional interventions are not indicated at this time.
The client should be advised to remove her nursing bra.
Application of a heating pad to the breasts is indicated.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice a reason:
Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that results in pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. The symptoms of mastitis typically include breast tenderness, redness on the skin, breast pain, and sometimes fever and malaise. While the client's breasts are described as hard and warm, which could be associated with mastitis, the absence of other key symptoms such as fever or flu-like symptoms suggests that mastitis may not be the issue here.
Choice b reason:
Three days postpartum, it is normal for the fundus to be below the umbilicus and for lochia rubra to be present. The hardness and warmth of the breasts could be due to milk coming in, which is also a normal postpartum change. Without additional symptoms of concern, such as fever, severe pain, or signs of infection, it is reasonable to conclude that no additional interventions are required at this time.
Choice c reason:
Removing a nursing bra can provide comfort, especially if it is too tight and contributing to breast engorgement or clogged ducts. However, there is no indication that the client's nursing bra is causing an issue. Nursing bras are designed to support the breasts during breastfeeding and typically do not need to be removed unless they are causing specific problems.
Choice d reason:
Applying a heating pad can help with milk let-down and relieve discomfort from engorgement or clogged ducts. However, since the client is not exhibiting signs of mastitis or severe engorgement, and the warmth of the breasts may be due to normal postpartum changes, the application of a heating pad is not necessarily indicated at this time.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A blood glucose level of 96 mg/dL is within the normal range for a fasting blood sugar level in pregnancy, which is typically between 70 to 95 mg/dL. It is crucial to monitor blood glucose levels during pregnancy due to the risk of gestational diabetes, which can have adverse effects on both the mother and the fetus.
Choice B reason:
The production of estrogen is indeed enhanced during pregnancy. Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining the pregnancy, promoting fetal development, and preparing the body for childbirth. Elevated levels of estrogen are expected and contribute to many of the physiological changes experienced during pregnancy.
Choice C reason:
A heart rate of 120 bpm (beats per minute) can be considered slightly elevated during pregnancy. The normal resting heart rate for a pregnant woman is usually between 60 to 100 bpm. However, during pregnancy, the heart rate can increase to accommodate the increased blood volume and the needs of the growing fetus. Given the information provided, the most likely scenario that the nurse should address is the heart rate of 120 bpm, as it is slightly above the normal range and may need monitoring or intervention.
Choice D reason:
Weakened respiratory contractions are not typically expected during pregnancy. Pregnant women may experience shortness of breath due to the growing uterus pushing against the diaphragm, but the respiratory contractions themselves should not be weakened. If this occurs, it may warrant further investigation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Stimulating the infant to cry is an important action as it helps ensure that the baby's lungs are clear of fluid and are functioning properly. However, this is not the first action to take. The initial cry will often occur naturally as part of the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life.
Choice B reason:
Clearing the respiratory tract is the priority action. Immediately after birth, it is crucial to ensure that the newborn's airway is clear to facilitate breathing. The nurse may suction the mouth and nose to remove any amniotic fluid, mucus, or other obstructions that could impede breathing.
Choice C reason:
Drying the infant off and covering the head is important to prevent heat loss, which newborns are particularly susceptible to due to their large surface area relative to body mass. However, this follows the clearance of the airway, as maintaining an open airway is the most critical initial step in newborn care.
Choice D reason:
Cutting the umbilical cord is a necessary step in the delivery process, but it is not the first action to take when caring for the newborn. The timing of cord clamping can vary, and immediate care focuses on ensuring the newborn's ability to breathe effectively.
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