Which of the following gravid clients is most appropriate for a charge nurse to assign to a new nurse with no obstetric (OB) experience?

A. Feeling anxious about the baby's health and well-being, but still able to care for the baby effectively
Mild anxiety about the baby’s health is a common experience for new mothers and does not necessarily indicate PPD. It becomes concerning if anxiety becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily functioning.

B. Experiencing occasional mood swings and irritability while adjusting to the new role of motherhood
Mood swings and irritability are normal postpartum adjustments, often due to hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. These symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks.

C. Feeling overwhelmed and having difficulty sleeping due to the demands of a newborn
Feeling overwhelmed and sleep disturbances are common in the postpartum period due to frequent infant care needs. However, severe or persistent sleep disturbances, especially with loss of interest in daily activities, may indicate PPD.

D. Persistent feelings of sadness, severe fatigue, and loss of interest in activities, including caring for the baby
Postpartum depression is characterized by prolonged sadness, extreme fatigue, withdrawal, and difficulty bonding with the baby. These symptoms extend beyond normal postpartum blues (which typically resolve within two weeks) and require medical intervention, including therapy and possibly medication.

A. Observe an area of redness on the breast of a client who is 1 day postpartum.
Assessment is outside the scope of practice for an AP. The nurse must assess the redness, as it could indicate mastitis or engorgement requiring further evaluation.

B. Provide a sitz bath to a client who has a fourth-degree laceration and is 2 days postpartum.
Assisting with hygiene and comfort measures, such as a sitz bath, is within the AP’s scope of practice. The nurse should ensure that the client understands proper perineal care and has no contraindications.

C. Monitor vital signs during admission of a client who has gestational hypertension.
Clients with gestational hypertension require close monitoring, and initial admission assessments, including vital signs, must be performed by the nurse to identify signs of preeclampsia or worsening hypertension.

D. Change the initial perineal pad of a client who just transferred from labor and delivery.
The first perineal pad change is an assessment opportunity for the nurse, allowing them to evaluate bleeding amount, presence of clots, and signs of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should perform the initial assessment and pad change before delegating routine hygiene tasks to the AP.