A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant for the fourth time. The client delivered two full- term newborns and had one spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks of gestation. The nurse should document the client's obstetrical history as which of the following?

The correct answer is choice C: "I will tip the nipple so air is present as my baby sucks.”
Choice A rationale:

The parent's statement in choice A, "I will keep my baby's head elevated while he is feeding,” indicates an understanding of proper bottle feeding techniques. Keeping the baby's head slightly elevated can help prevent choking and aspiration during feedings. This is a correct statement, and no further instruction is needed in this regard.

Choice B rationale:

The parent's statement in choice B, "I will allow my baby to burp several times during each feeding,” also demonstrates knowledge of appropriate bottle feeding practices. Burping the baby during and after feedings helps release swallowed air, reducing the likelihood of excessive gas and discomfort. This statement is correct, and no additional instruction is required.

Choice C rationale:

Choice C is the incorrect statement because tipping the nipple to introduce air while the baby sucks is not a recommended practice. In fact, it can lead to an increased intake of air, potentially causing gas, discomfort, and colic in the baby. Therefore, further instruction is needed to correct this misconception.

Choice D Rationale:

Choice D is not directly related to the need for further instruction in bottle feeding techniques and is not addressed in the explanation.

Choice A rationale:

Assisting the family in identifying prior coping skills is a valuable nursing intervention, but it is not the priority action in this situation. The client's feelings of sadness and lack of energy raise concerns about postpartum depression, and the nurse should address potential harm to the newborn first.

Choice B rationale:

This is the priority action by the nurse. The client's symptoms are indicative of postpartum depression, and the nurse must assess if she has considered harming her newborn. This assessment is crucial for the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Choice C rationale:

Anticipating a prescription for an antidepressant may be appropriate once a proper assessment and diagnosis are made, but it is not the priority action at this stage. Assessing for potential harm to the newborn takes precedence.

Choice D rationale:

Reinforcing postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching is essential for the client's well- being. However, it is not the priority action when the client is showing signs of postpartum depression and possible harm to the newborn.