A breastfeeding woman develops engorged breasts at 3 days postpartum.
What action would help this woman achieve her goal of reducing the engorgement?

Choice A rationale

Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, typically occurring in the first trimester. Amniocentesis is a procedure performed later in pregnancy, so hyperemesis is not a direct complication of the procedure.

Choice B rationale

Proteinuria is the presence of protein in the urine, which can be a sign of preeclampsia during pregnancy. While amniocentesis carries a small risk of complications, proteinuria is not a direct expected complication of the procedure itself.

Choice C rationale

Hemorrhage, or excessive bleeding, is a potential complication of amniocentesis because the procedure involves inserting a needle through the abdominal wall and uterus to withdraw amniotic fluid. This can potentially damage blood vessels, leading to bleeding at the insertion site or internally.

Choice D rationale

Hypoxia is a condition in which the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level. While fetal well-being is monitored during and after amniocentesis, hypoxia is not a direct complication for the mother.

Choice A rationale

Proteinuria, the presence of protein in the urine, is not a typical immediate complication following an amniocentesis. It is more commonly associated with preeclampsia, a condition of pregnancy. While the nurse would monitor the patient's overall condition, proteinuria is not a direct risk related to the amniocentesis procedure itself.

Choice B rationale

Hemorrhage is a potential complication following an amniocentesis. The procedure involves inserting a needle through the abdominal wall and uterus to withdraw amniotic fluid, which carries a risk of bleeding at the insertion site, within the uterus, or even fetomaternal hemorrhage (bleeding from the fetal circulation into the maternal circulation). The nurse must monitor for signs of bleeding, such as increased pain, decreased blood pressure, or vaginal bleeding.

Choice C rationale

Hypoxia, a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, is not a direct immediate complication of amniocentesis for the mother. While fetal well-being is monitored during and after the procedure, maternal hypoxia is not a typical risk associated with the amniocentesis itself.

Choice D rationale

Infection is a significant potential complication following an amniocentesis. The invasive nature of the procedure creates a risk of introducing bacteria into the amniotic cavity or the maternal tissues. The nurse should observe for signs of infection such as fever, chills, abdominal tenderness, or leakage of fluid from the insertion site.