A nurse is caring for a client who is beginning to breastfeed her newborn after delivery. The new mother states, "I don't want to take anything for pain because I am breastfeeding." Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
We can time your pain medication so that you have an hour or two before the next feeding.
You need to take pain medications so you are more comfortable.
All medications are found in breast milk to some extent.
You have the option of not taking pain medication if you are concerned.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice a) reason:
Timing the administration of pain medication can help minimize the amount of medication that passes into the breast milk. By scheduling pain relief around breastfeeding times, the nurse can ensure that the peak concentration of the medication in the blood (and therefore potentially in the milk) does not coincide with the baby's feeding times. This approach helps manage the mother's pain while also protecting the newborn from unnecessary exposure to medication.
Choice b) reason:
While managing pain is important for the mother's comfort and recovery, stating that she needs to take medication without considering her concerns about breastfeeding may not be supportive or respectful of her wishes. It's essential to address her concerns and provide options that align with her breastfeeding goals.
Choice c) reason:
It is true that all medications can be found in breast milk to some extent; however, the levels can vary widely based on the medication's properties. The nurse should provide information about the specific medication's safety during breastfeeding and discuss any potential risks with the mother.
Choice d) reason:
Informing the mother that she has the option of not taking pain medication addresses her autonomy in decision-making. However, it's also important for the nurse to discuss the potential consequences of untreated pain, such as impaired ability to care for the newborn and delayed recovery.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A soft, edematous area on the scalp, often referred to as a cephalohematoma, is a common finding after vacuum-assisted deliveries. This is due to the suction applied during delivery and usually resolves without intervention. However, it should be monitored for any signs of increased swelling or jaundice as it can sometimes lead to hyperbilirubinemia.
Choice B reason:
The blue coloring of the hands and feet, known as acrocyanosis, is a normal finding in the first few days of life. It occurs due to the immature circulation in the newborn and typically resolves as the baby's circulation adapts to life outside the womb.
Choice C reason:
Facial edema can be present in newborns following a vacuum-assisted delivery due to the pressure applied during the procedure. It is usually transient and resolves within a few days. However, persistent or severe edema may warrant further evaluation.
Choice D reason:
Poor sucking is a significant finding that should be reported to the provider. Effective sucking is crucial for adequate nutrition and hydration in the newborn. Poor sucking can be a sign of neurological compromise or other issues that require immediate attention to ensure the baby can feed properly and thrive.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a reason:
The fundus being soft and to the right of the umbilicus could indicate that the bladder is full and displacing the uterus. This is not an expected finding and would require the nurse to encourage the client to empty her bladder to help the uterus contract and return to its normal position.
Choice b reason:
The expected finding for a client who is 12 hours postpartum is for the fundus to be firm and at the level of the umbilicus. A firm fundus indicates good uterine tone and that the uterus is contracting as it should to return to its pre-pregnancy size. This helps to prevent excessive bleeding and promotes recovery.
Choice c reason:
A fundus that is soft and 2 cm above the umbilicus is not an expected finding at 12 hours postpartum. This could suggest that the uterus is not contracting properly, which could lead to postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse would need to assess further and possibly provide interventions such as fundal massage or medication to encourage uterine contractions.
Choice d reason:
The fundus being present to the left of the umbilicus may indicate that the uterus is not contracting symmetrically or that there is a full bladder displacing the uterus. This finding would prompt the nurse to assess for bladder distention and encourage the client to void to help the uterus contract properly.
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