A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 6 weeks postpartum. The client tells the nurse, "I am not a good mother. My baby doesn't like me.” Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Advise the client that most new mothers experience these feelings.
Ask the client if they have had thoughts about harming their infant.
Explain to the client they are experiencing the "baby blues.”
Take the client to the emergency department.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B reason: The nurse should ask the client if they have had thoughts about harming their infant. This is a crucial action because the client's statement suggests they may be experiencing feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt as a mother, which could potentially lead to more serious thoughts or actions. By directly asking about thoughts of harming the baby, the nurse can assess the client's mental and emotional state more thoroughly and determine if there is a risk of harm to the infant.
Choice A reason:
The nurse should advise the client that most new mothers experience these feelings. This response acknowledges the client's feelings of inadequacy and normalizes their experience, letting them know that it is common for new mothers to have doubts and insecurities. This validation can help the client feel less alone and more understood, promoting a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.
Choice C reason:
The nurse should explain to the client that they are experiencing the "baby blues.” This is a valid option because the client's statement indicates they may be experiencing mood swings, sadness, and emotional sensitivity, which are typical symptoms of the baby blues. Providing this information can help the client understand that these feelings are transient and often related to hormonal changes after childbirth.
Choice D reason:
Taking the client to the emergency department is not warranted based solely on the information provided. The client's statement does not indicate an immediate danger to themselves or their baby. However, if during the assessment (including choice B), the nurse identifies any signs of potential harm to the infant or the client, further action may be necessary, such as involving appropriate mental health professionals or support services.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Experiences separation anxiety - This is a common behavior seen in toddlers during hospitalization. Being away from their parents or caregivers and being in an unfamiliar environment can lead to feelings of anxiety and distress. Separation anxiety is a natural response for young children who rely on their primary caregivers for comfort and security.
Choice B reason:
Fears a loss of control - Toddlers may feel overwhelmed and fearful when they find themselves in a hospital setting. The loss of control over their daily routines and environment can be frightening for them. They may be unable to understand the reasons behind medical procedures or interventions, further increasing their anxiety.
Choice C reason:
Feels hospitalization is punishment - While some children might have difficulty understanding the reasons for hospitalization, it is less common for them to perceive it as punishment.
Children at this age often lack the cognitive capacity to associate their illness with punishment.
Choice D reason:
Develops body image disturbance - Body image disturbance is not a typical behavior observed in toddlers during hospitalization. This issue is more common in older children or adolescents who may experience changes in their appearance due to medical conditions or treatments.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Airborne precautions are implemented for diseases that spread through small airborne particles, such as tuberculosis or measles. These diseases can remain suspended in the air for extended periods and be inhaled by others. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making airborne precautions unnecessary.
Choice B reason:
Droplet precautions are appropriate for illnesses that spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Pertussis falls into this category as it is transmitted mainly through respiratory droplets. By implementing droplet precautions, the nurse will minimize the risk of transmission to others, including healthcare workers and other patients.
Choice C reason:
Standard precautions are the baseline infection prevention practices used for all patients to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. While important, they may not be sufficient to control the transmission of pertussis, as it requires additional measures like droplet precautions due to its specific mode of transmission.
Choice D reason:
Neutropenic precautions are used for patients with compromised immune systems, particularly those with low white blood cell counts (neutropenia). The purpose is to protect these vulnerable individuals from exposure to infectious agents. However, pertussis precautions are different and do not fall under the neutropenic category.
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