Which intervention is the most important for the practical nurse (PN) to implement when applying an ice pack to a client?

Worsening perineal pain after medication could indicate inadequate pain relief or a potential complication such as infection or hematoma. It is important to reassess the client to determine the cause of the increased pain and take appropriate action before transferring to the postpartum unit.
The other scenarios described in the options may also require attention, but they do not indicate an immediate need for reassessment before transfer:
B. A primigravida who passed a small clot when she sat up on the edge of the bed: Passing small clots is a normal part of the postpartum period, and it may not necessarily require immediate reassessment. However, the PN should monitor for any excessive or large clots and report any concerning findings.
C. A multigravida whose peri-pad is 1⁄2 saturated with lochia rubra after one hour: Lochia rubra is the normal discharge following childbirth, and some saturation of the peri-pad is expected.
However, the PN should continue to monitor the amount and consistency of the lochia and report any significant changes.
D. A multigravida complaining of strong afterbirth pains when breastfeeding: Afterbirth pains, also known as uterine cramps, are common during breastfeeding as the uterus contracts. While discomfort is expected, strong afterbirth pains should be assessed for severity and managed appropriately. The PN should provide comfort measures and assess if the pain is within the expected range or if it requires further evaluation.

- A mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of all or part of the breast, usually to treat breast cancer. A mastectomy can have a significant impact on a woman's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, as it may affect her body image, self-esteem, sexuality, and identity.
- A mastectomy incision is the wound that results from the surgery, which may vary in size, shape, and location depending on the type and extent of the mastectomy. The incision may be closed with stitches, staples, or glue, and covered with a dressing or bandage.

- The first dressing change is usually done within 24 to 48 hours after the surgery, and it involves removing the old dressing, inspecting the incision for any signs of infection or complications, cleaning the wound, applying a new dressing, and educating the client about wound care .
- When the practical nurse (PN) tells the client that her mastectomy incision is healing well, but the client refuses to look at the incision and refuses to talk about it, this may indicate that the client is experiencing denial, fear, anger, grief, or depression due to the loss of her breast. These are normal and common reactions that may occur at different stages of the recovery process.
- The best response by the PN to the client's silence is to acknowledge and respect the client's feelings, provide support and reassurance, and offer assistance when needed. This will help to establish trust and rapport with the client, as well as promote her coping and adjustment.
- Therefore, option A is the best answer, as it shows empathy and respect for the client's feelings, while also informing the client that the PN will be available when she is ready to look or talk about the mastectomy. Option A also implies that the PN will not pressure or force the client to do something that she is not comfortable with.

- Options B, C, and D are incorrect answers, as they do not show empathy or respect for the client's feelings, and they may cause more harm than good.