A nurse is assisting in the admission of a client who had recently given birth and is presenting to the emergency department with acute opioid toxicity. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason:

The client stating, "I should add 500 calories per day to my diet,” is not an accurate understanding of breastfeeding. While it is true that breastfeeding mothers require additional calories to support lactation, the specific amount of calories needed varies depending on individual factors and should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Simply adding 500 calories per day may not be appropriate for every woman and could lead to excessive weight gain.

Choice B reason:

This choice indicates an understanding of proper breast hygiene during breastfeeding. Using antibacterial soap and warm water to wash the breasts helps to prevent infection and maintain good breast health, reducing the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.

Choice C reason:

The statement, "Breastfeeding is a reliable method of birth control,” is incorrect. While breastfeeding can provide some natural contraceptive effects, it is not a foolproof method of birth control. This concept is known as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), and specific criteria must be met for it to be considered a reliable form of contraception. Relying solely on breastfeeding as birth control can lead to an unintended pregnancy.

Choice D reason:

The statement, "If my nipples become cracked and red, I will apply hydrocortisone cream,” is not advisable. While hydrocortisone cream may provide temporary relief from irritation, it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Ingestion of the cream by the baby can be harmful. Instead, the client should seek guidance from a healthcare professional to address and resolve any breastfeeding-related nipple issues.

Choice A reason:

The nurse should not recommend drinking warm tea before bed for a pregnant client. Certain herbal teas might not be safe during pregnancy, and caffeine-containing teas should be limited due to their potential effects on the fetus. Therefore, it is best to avoid suggesting this option to the client.

Choice B reason:

This is the correct choice as relaxation exercises can be beneficial for pregnant clients who are experiencing difficulty sleeping. These exercises can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality without any adverse effects on the client or the baby.

Choice C reason:

The nurse should avoid recommending that the client sleep on their right side. While the left side is generally recommended during pregnancy to improve blood flow to the placenta and baby, sleeping on the right side is not harmful either. However, it is better to provide the most suitable option for promoting sleep, which is relaxation exercises as mentioned in Choice B.

Choice D reason:

Soaking in a hot tub for 60 minutes is not advisable during pregnancy. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as in hot tubs or saunas, can raise the body's core temperature, potentially causing harm to the developing fetus. Pregnant individuals should avoid hot tubs to prevent overheating.