A nurse is caring for a client who is being admitted to the labor and delivery unit.
Client reports mild abdominal pain and light vaginal bleeding.
Reports last menstrual period was 11 weeks ago.

Choice A rationale

While understanding methods of labor induction is important if the pregnancy progresses to 42 weeks, it is not the priority teaching at 31 weeks gestation. The immediate focus should be on recognizing potential complications that could arise before the scheduled induction.

Choice B rationale

The benefits of breastfeeding are important for all pregnant women but are not the priority teaching for a client at 31 weeks who is not yet in labor. Information about breastfeeding can be provided later in the pregnancy.

Choice C rationale

Teaching the signs of labor is important as the client approaches term, but at 31 weeks, the priority is to educate the client on recognizing potential warning signs that require immediate attention, such as decreased fetal movement.

Choice D rationale

Monitoring fetal movement is a crucial teaching point at 31 weeks gestation. A decrease in fetal movement can be an early indicator of fetal compromise and requires prompt evaluation. Instructing the client on how to perform kick counts and when to report changes is a priority for ensuring fetal well-being before the scheduled induction.

Choice A rationale

Expressing milk when bottle-feeding can stimulate further milk production, which would exacerbate the engorgement and discomfort. The goal is to discourage milk production.

Choice B rationale

While a supportive bra is generally recommended for comfort, a loose-fitting bra might not provide adequate support to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement. A firm, supportive bra is usually advised.

Choice C rationale

Cold packs cause vasoconstriction, which helps to reduce blood flow to the breasts, thereby decreasing swelling, inflammation, and pain associated with engorgement. This provides symptomatic relief without stimulating milk production.

Choice D rationale

Warm water can stimulate milk flow, which is counterproductive when trying to suppress lactation in a bottle-feeding mother experiencing engorgement. Warmth increases blood flow and can worsen swelling and discomfort.