A nurse is caring for a client who is postpartum, has a deep-vein thrombosis, and is receiving heparin therapy via subcutaneous injections. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to wash their hands before breastfeeding helps prevent the transmission of infection to the breast and the baby.

Choice B rationale:

Teaching the client about proper latching-on techniques ensures effective breastfeeding, reduces the risk of nipple damage, and promotes comfort for both the client and the baby.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to alternate breastfeeding with formula feeding is not recommended for a client with mastitis. Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue often caused by bacterial infection, and continuing breastfeeding helps to clear the infection and maintain milk supply.

Choice D rationale:

Instructing the client to avoid using a breast pump is not necessary in this situation. Breastfeeding and pumping can continue to help drain the breast adequately, which is essential for resolving mastitis.

Choice E rationale:

Encouraging the client to allow their nipples to air dry after feedings helps promote healing and prevents further irritation to the nipples.

Choice A rationale:

Continuous abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding in a client with a history of cocaine use are indicative of abruptio placentae. Abruptio placentae is a medical emergency where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, leading to severe bleeding and abdominal pain. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby.

Choice B rationale:

Hydatidiform mole is a gestational trophoblastic disease that occurs due to an abnormal pregnancy. It is not associated with continuous abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Instead, clients with this condition often present with vaginal bleeding and a grape-like cluster of cysts in the uterus.

Choice C rationale:

Preterm labor involves regular uterine contractions and cervical changes before 37 weeks of gestation. While preterm labor can cause abdominal discomfort, it is not usually described as continuous abdominal pain. Vaginal bleeding is not a typical symptom of preterm labor.

Choice D rationale:

Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the opening of the cervix. It can cause painless vaginal bleeding, but it is not usually associated with continuous abdominal pain. Clients with placenta previa often experience sudden, painless bleeding later in pregnancy.