A nurse is assessing a client who is 8 hr postpartum and multiparous. Which of the following findings should alert the nurse to the client's need to urinate?

Choice A reason: Wear a nipple shield is incorrect, as this recommendation is not indicated for a client who has engorged breasts. A nipple shield is a thin, flexible device that covers the nipple and areola and can help with latch problems, flat or inverted nipples, or sore nipples. However, a nipple shield can also reduce milk transfer, stimulate less milk production, and cause nipple confusion or preference.

Choice B reason: Express milk from both breasts is correct, as this recommendation can help relieve engorgement and maintain milk production. Engorgement is a normal and expected phenomenon that occurs when the milk comes in, usually around 72 to 96 hr after birth. Engorgement can cause breast fullness, tenderness, warmth, and hardness. The nurse should advise the client to express milk from both breasts by breastfeeding frequently and effectively or by using a breast pump or hand expression.

Choice C reason: Obtain a prescription for an antibiotic is incorrect, as this recommendation is not indicated for a client who has engorged breasts. An antibiotic is used to treat mastitis, which is an infection and inflammation of the breast tissue that can cause redness, pain, swelling, warmth, and fever in the affected breast. The nurse should assess the client for signs of mastitis and report any abnormal findings to the provider.

Choice D reason: Apply a heating pad to her breasts is incorrect, as this recommendation can worsen engorgement and cause discomfort. A heating pad can increase blood flow and swelling in the breasts, which can impair milk flow and increase pain. The nurse should advise the client to apply cold compresses or cabbage leaves to her breasts to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Choice A reason: "You will experience urinary retention." is incorrect, as this statement does not describe a sign preceding the onset of labor. Urinary retention can occur during labor due to pressure from the fetal head or epidural anesthesia, but it is not a sign that labor is imminent. The nurse should encourage the client to void frequently and monitor their bladder status.

Choice B reason: "You will have a decrease in vaginal discharge." is incorrect, as this statement does not describe a sign preceding the onset of labor. Vaginal discharge can increase before labor due to cervical ripening and dilation, which can cause bloody show or mucus plug loss. The nurse should educate the client about normal and abnormal vaginal discharge and when to report it.

Choice C reason: "You will experience a surge of energy." is correct, as this statement describes a sign preceding the onset of labor. A surge of energy, also known as nesting instinct, can occur before labor due to hormonal changes or psychological factors. The nurse should advise the client to conserve their energy and rest as much as possible before labor.

Choice D reason: "You will have a weight gain of 0.5 to 1.5 kilograms." is incorrect, as this statement does not describe a sign preceding the onset of labor. Weight gain can occur during pregnancy due to fetal growth, fluid retention, or increased caloric intake, but it is not a sign that labor is imminent. The nurse should monitor the client's weight and fluid balance and report any sudden or excessive weight gain that may indicate preeclampsia or other complications.