A charge nurse is discussing risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following conditions should the nurse include as a risk factor?

(a) Offer an ice pack to the client during the first 24 hr.
Offering an ice pack is an appropriate intervention for managing perineal pain and swelling in the immediate postpartum period. Ice helps to reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing pain relief. This is a standard recommendation for managing perineal pain after vaginal delivery.

(b) Apply a corticosteroid cream to the perineal area twice daily.
Applying a corticosteroid cream is not typically recommended for perineal pain immediately after delivery. These creams are generally used for inflammatory skin conditions and not for the acute management of perineal pain and swelling after childbirth.

(c) Increase the client's fluid intake for 48 hr.
While maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall recovery, increasing fluid intake specifically does not address the client's perineal pain. This intervention would not provide immediate pain relief for the perineal area.

(d) Catheterize the client's bladder.
Catheterizing the bladder is not a standard intervention for perineal pain. It is typically done if the client has urinary retention or difficulty voiding, not for managing pain. This action would not directly alleviate the perineal pain the client is experiencing.

(A) "I will nurse my baby for 5 to 10 minutes on each breast.":
While nursing for 5 to 10 minutes on each breast might work for some babies, it's generally recommended to allow the baby to nurse as long as they are actively sucking and swallowing. The length of time can vary depending on the baby's needs and the mother's milk supply.

(B) "I will make sure that just the nipple is in my baby's mouth.":
This is incorrect because proper latch-on involves the baby having not just the nipple but also a large portion of the areola in their mouth. This ensures effective milk transfer and helps prevent nipple soreness and damage.

(C) "I will apply vitamin E oil to my nipples after each feeding.":
Applying vitamin E oil or any other substance to the nipples is not typically recommended without the advice of a healthcare provider. Some substances can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Instead, if there is nipple soreness, lanolin or expressed breast milk can be used, but it's best to follow guidelines given by a healthcare provider.

(D) "I will lay my baby on a pillow at the level of my breast.":
Using a pillow to support the baby at the level of the breast can help ensure proper positioning and latch during breastfeeding. This position can make breastfeeding more comfortable for both the mother and the baby, promoting effective feeding and reducing the risk of nipple pain.