A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who is postoperative following the surgical repair of a detached retina.

Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason:

"I try to respond to the baby quickly so she doesn't cry very long." This statement is incorrect because it indicates the parent's sensitivity to the baby's needs and responsiveness to the baby's cues, which are positive signs of appropriate caregiving.

Choice B reason:

"I have several friends who come by to help out with the baby." This statement is incorrect because having a support system in the form of friends who help with the baby is a positive factor that can reduce stress and promote a healthy postpartum period.

Choice C reason:

"I want to meet other parents to see if they are going through the same things." This statement is incorrect because seeking social support and connecting with other parents can be beneficial in reducing feelings of isolation and stress during the postpartum period.

Choice D reason:

"I think the baby should be sleeping through the night by now is the correct statement "I think the baby should be sleeping through the night by now," as a manifestation of increased risk for child abuse. This statement may indicate unrealistic expectations or frustration from the parent regarding the baby's sleep patterns.

It is common for newborns to wake frequently during the night for feeding and care, and their sleep patterns can vary significantly in the early weeks and months of life. Unrealistic expectations or frustration about the baby's sleep habits can contribute to increased stress for the parent, which might increase the risk of child abuse or neglect.

Choice A reason:

Offer to take pictures of the newborn for the client is the right choice, During the initial grieving process after experiencing a stillbirth, the nurse should offer to take pictures of the newborn for the client if the client wishes. Offering to take pictures is an essential and sensitive way to honour and validate the client's experience and the significance of their baby. It allows the client to have tangible memories of their child, which can be important for the grieving process and help in the healing journey.

It is crucial for the nurse to be supportive and compassionate during this time, respecting the client's emotional needs and preferences. Providing emotional support and empathy are critical components of caring for a client who has experienced the loss of a baby.

Choice B reason:

Assure the client that she can have additional children is not correct. While this statement may be well-intentioned, it may not be appropriate during the initial grieving process. The client may not be emotionally ready to discuss future pregnancies, and such assurances might minimize the significance of the loss they are experiencing. It is essential to be sensitive and refrain from making assumptions about the client's feelings or future plans.

Choice C reason:

Avoid talking to the client about the newborn. Avoiding talking to the client about the newborn may be seen as disregarding their feelings and emotions. Instead, it is essential to provide opportunities for the client to talk about their feelings and the baby if they wish to do so. Creating an environment where the client feels comfortable expressing their emotions can be crucial in the grieving process.

Choice D reason

Discouraging the client from allowing friends to see the newborn It is not appropriate for the nurse to discourage or prevent the client from allowing friends to see the newborn if they wish to do so. Grieving is a highly individual process, and some clients may find comfort and support in sharing their grief with loved ones. The nurse should respect the client's decisions regarding who they want to involve in their grieving process.