A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 weeks postpartum. The client tells the nurse, "I feel really down and sad lately. I have no energy and I feel like I'm going to cry." Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Reinforce teaching about ways to increase rest and sleep.
Arrange for counseling to help the client cope with the stress of being a parent.
Request a prescription for antidepressant medication.
Use a postpartum depression screening tool with the client.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: While adequate rest and sleep are essential postpartum, the client's symptoms of feeling down and sad may be indicative of postpartum depression and should be further evaluated.
Choice B rationale: Counseling may be helpful, but the priority is to first assess and screen for postpartum depression before making additional recommendations.
Choice C rationale: While antidepressant medications might be necessary for postpartum depression, the initial step should be to assess and screen for depression using the appropriate tool.
Choice D rationale: The client's statement and symptoms raise concerns about possible postpartum depression. Using a postpartum depression screening tool will help the nurse assess the severity of the client's symptoms and determine the appropriate course of action.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: While folic acid is important during pregnancy, this statement is not specifically related to dietary intake for breastfeeding mothers. Adequate folic acid intake is essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus.
Choice B rationale: This statement does not provide enough information and may not be appropriate for all breastfeeding mothers. The caloric needs of breastfeeding mothers can vary depending on their individual metabolism, activity level, and nutritional status.
Choice C rationale: Breastfeeding mothers require adequate protein intake to support their own nutritional needs and the production of breast milk. Decreasing protein intake is not advisable and may lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Choice D rationale: Breastfeeding mothers need to stay well-hydrated to maintain an adequate milk supply and to support their own health. Drinking enough fluids, preferably decaffeinated, is essential for breastfeeding moms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Weight loss in the first few days after birth is normal for newborns, and a weight loss of up to 7-10% of the birth weight is considered within the expected range. A 6% weight loss is within normal limits, and it is reassuring to inform the mother that this is typical.
Choice B rationale: Suggesting switching to formula is not necessary based on the weight loss described. Breastfeeding provides adequate nutrition for most newborns, and early weight loss is typical and not a cause for alarm.
Choice C rationale: While it is true that new mothers may worry about breastfeeding and milk supply, this response does not address the specific weight loss concern and might not fully reassure the mother.
Choice D rationale: A 6% weight loss is within the expected range for a newborn and does not warrant hospitalization. It is a normal finding, and most newborns will start to regain their birth weight within a few days of life.
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