A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about how to reduce the risk of giving birth to a newborn who has a neural tube defect. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale: This response is not supportive and may cause the client to feel pressured or inadequate. It is essential to be empathetic and understanding of the client's feelings and needs.
Choice B rationale: The nurse should encourage the client to begin breastfeeding and offer support if needed. This response does not promote the client's active involvement in caring for her newborn.
Choice C rationale: While breastfeeding is a natural process, it can be challenging for some women, especially in the early days. This response may minimize the client's concerns and emotions.
Choice D rationale: The nurse should be supportive and reassuring to the postpartum client. The client may be feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about breastfeeding, so offering assistance and staying with the client to help with the first feeding is an appropriate and compassionate response.

Choice A rationale:

Administering the hepatitis B vaccine monthly until the newborn tests negative for the hepatitis B surface antigen is not the appropriate treatment for a newborn whose mother is positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen. Immediate intervention is required to prevent transmission.
Choice B rationale:

The newborn of a mother who is positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen should receive hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and the hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth. HBIG provides passive immunity to the baby while the vaccine stimulates active immunity.
Choice C rationale:

Administering hepatitis B immune globulin for 1 week followed by the hepatitis B vaccine monthly for 6 months is not the correct treatment plan. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent transmission to the newborn.
Choice D rationale:

Administering the hepatitis B vaccine at 24 hours followed by hepatitis B immune globulin every 12 hours for 3 days is not the appropriate treatment. Hepatitis B immune globulin should be given within 12 hours of birth, not over several days.