A patient who is 17 weeks pregnant shares several pieces of information with the nurse.
Which statement made by the patient would indicate the patient is at risk for having an infant with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR)?

The correct answer is choice D. Wear a supportive bra.This will help suppress lactation and reduce the discomfort of engorgement.

The other choices are wrong because:

• Choice A. Manually express colostrum as necessary.This will stimulate milk production and prolong engorgement.

• Choice B. Apply hot compresses to the breasts.This will increase blood flow and swelling in the breasts and worsen engorgement.

• Choice C. Massage the breast tissue surrounding the areola.This will also stimulate milk production and prolong engorgement.

Normal ranges for breast engorgement are not applicable as it is a subjective experience that varies among women.However, some signs of engorgement include firm, tender, swollen breasts, flat or inverted nipples, and low-grade fever.Engorgement usually resolves within 24 to 36 hours after it begins.

The correct answer is choice A. The newborn’s nostrils flare slightly during respiration.This is a sign of respiratory distress in a newborn.

Flaring nostrils indicate that the newborn is working hard to breathe and may not be getting enough oxygen.

Choice B is wrong because the newborn’s hands and feet are blue and feel cool.This is a normal finding called acrocyanosis, which occurs due to immature peripheral circulation.

It usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours after birth.

Choice C is wrong because the newborn’s eyes move randomly when his head is turned to the side.This is a normal finding called nystagmus, which occurs due to immature eye muscles and coordination.

It usually disappears by 6 months of age.

Choice D is wrong because the newborn’s tongue thrusts forward when it is lightly touched.This is a normal finding called the extrusion reflex, which helps the newborn to suck and swallow.

It usually fades by 4 months of age.