A nurse is caring for a school-age child who is 2 hr postoperative following cardiac catheterization.

The nurse observes blood on the child’s dressing.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because it reflects the principle of supply and demand in breastfeeding. The more the baby stimulates the breast, the more milk the mother will produce.

Choice B is wrong because manually expressing milk will not decrease the milk supply. In fact, it can help increase the milk supply by removing more milk from the breast and signaling the body to make more.

Choice C is wrong because the breast is not emptied after 5 to 10 minutes of feeding. The baby should be allowed to nurse until they are satisfied and show signs of fullness, such as releasing the nipple, falling asleep, or turning away from the breast. The average duration of a feeding session can vary from 10 to 45 minutes.

Choice D is wrong because the baby should not always start on the same breast when feeding. The mother should alternate which breast she offers first to ensure both breasts are stimulated and drained equally.

This can help prevent engorgement, mastitis, and low milk supply. A simple way to remember which breast to start with is to wear a bracelet or a clip on the bra strap on the side that needs to be offered next.

This action demonstrates the nurse’s role as an advocate and a resource person for the client, who might be eligible for financial assistance and health care coverage during her pregnancy and the postpartum period. Medicaid is a federal and state program that provides health insurance for low-income individuals and families.
Choice A is wrong because contacting the adolescent’s parent for assistance might violate the client’s confidentiality and autonomy, especially if the parent is not aware of or supportive of the pregnancy. The nurse should respect the client’s right to privacy and self-determination unless there is a risk of harm to the client or the fetus.
Choice C is wrong because referring the adolescent to a local mental health clinic might imply that the client has a mental disorder or needs psychological counseling, which could be stigmatizing and discouraging.
The nurse should assess the client’s emotional state and coping skills, and provide supportive and nonjudgmental care. The nurse can also offer referrals to other community resources, such as prenatal education, parenting classes, or social services, that might benefit the client.
Choice D is wrong because advising the adolescent to place the newborn for adoption might interfere with the client’s decision-making process and personal values.
The nurse should not impose his or her own opinions or beliefs on the client but rather explore the client’s feelings and preferences about her pregnancy options. The nurse should provide factual information and education about adoption, abortion, or parenting, and help the client weigh the benefits and risks of each option.