A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is postpartum and is taking docusate sodium to prevent constipation. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

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.

Choice A reason:

Ibuprofen - Ibuprofen belongs to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) class, which includes aspirin. Since the client reports an allergy to aspirin, there is a risk of cross- reactivity, leading to a potential allergic reaction. Therefore, Ibuprofen should be avoided.

Choice B reason:

Acetaminophen - Acetaminophen is not an NSAID, and it works differently from aspirin. It is a safe option for the client in the postpartum period to manage pain without causing a cross- reaction with their aspirin allergy. Acetaminophen primarily acts on the central nervous system to reduce pain and fever, making it suitable for the client.

Choice C reason:

Naproxen - Naproxen is also an NSAID, and like Ibuprofen, it carries the risk of cross-reactivity in someone allergic to aspirin. Therefore, Naproxen should be avoided in this client.

Choice D reason:

Celecoxib - Celecoxib is a type of NSAID known as a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor. Although it is a bit more selective and generally considered to have a lower risk of causing cross-reactions, it is still an NSAID and not recommended for someone with a known aspirin allergy. Hence, Celecoxib should not be administered to the client in this scenario.