A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 6 weeks postpartum. The client tells the nurse, "I am not a good mother. My baby doesn't like me.” Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Advise the client that most new mothers experience these feelings.
Ask the client if they have had thoughts about harming their infant.
Explain to the client they are experiencing the "baby blues.”
Take the client to the emergency department.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B reason: The nurse should ask the client if they have had thoughts about harming their infant. This is a crucial action because the client's statement suggests they may be experiencing feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt as a mother, which could potentially lead to more serious thoughts or actions. By directly asking about thoughts of harming the baby, the nurse can assess the client's mental and emotional state more thoroughly and determine if there is a risk of harm to the infant.
Choice A reason:
The nurse should advise the client that most new mothers experience these feelings. This response acknowledges the client's feelings of inadequacy and normalizes their experience, letting them know that it is common for new mothers to have doubts and insecurities. This validation can help the client feel less alone and more understood, promoting a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.
Choice C reason:
The nurse should explain to the client that they are experiencing the "baby blues.” This is a valid option because the client's statement indicates they may be experiencing mood swings, sadness, and emotional sensitivity, which are typical symptoms of the baby blues. Providing this information can help the client understand that these feelings are transient and often related to hormonal changes after childbirth.
Choice D reason:
Taking the client to the emergency department is not warranted based solely on the information provided. The client's statement does not indicate an immediate danger to themselves or their baby. However, if during the assessment (including choice B), the nurse identifies any signs of potential harm to the infant or the client, further action may be necessary, such as involving appropriate mental health professionals or support services.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The client stating, "I should add 500 calories per day to my diet,” is not an accurate understanding of breastfeeding. While it is true that breastfeeding mothers require additional calories to support lactation, the specific amount of calories needed varies depending on individual factors and should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Simply adding 500 calories per day may not be appropriate for every woman and could lead to excessive weight gain.
Choice B reason:
This choice indicates an understanding of proper breast hygiene during breastfeeding. Using antibacterial soap and warm water to wash the breasts helps to prevent infection and maintain good breast health, reducing the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Choice C reason:
The statement, "Breastfeeding is a reliable method of birth control,” is incorrect. While breastfeeding can provide some natural contraceptive effects, it is not a foolproof method of birth control. This concept is known as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), and specific criteria must be met for it to be considered a reliable form of contraception. Relying solely on breastfeeding as birth control can lead to an unintended pregnancy.
Choice D reason:
The statement, "If my nipples become cracked and red, I will apply hydrocortisone cream,” is not advisable. While hydrocortisone cream may provide temporary relief from irritation, it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Ingestion of the cream by the baby can be harmful. Instead, the client should seek guidance from a healthcare professional to address and resolve any breastfeeding-related nipple issues.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Swaddle the newborn during the treatment. Choice A reason:
Apply lotion to the newborn's skin twice per day. Rationale: The nurse should not apply lotion to the newborn's skin during phototherapy. Phototherapy involves exposing the baby's skin to light to treat hyperbilirubinemia. Applying lotion may interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment or cause adverse reactions.
Choice B reason:
Check the newborn's blood glucose every 2 hours. Rationale: While monitoring the newborn's blood glucose is an essential part of neonatal care, it is not directly related to phototherapy or the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. Glucose monitoring is typically done to assess for hypoglycemia or other metabolic disturbances.
Choice C reason:
Swaddle the newborn during the treatment. Rationale: The newborn should not be swaddled during phototherapy because it limits exposure of the skin to the phototherapy lights, which is essential for reducing bilirubin levels.
Choice D reason:
Remove the newborn's eye mask during feedings. Rationale:The eye mask is used to protect the newborn's eyes from the bright lights during phototherapy, but it can be removed for feeding. It’s important to ensure that the newborn is fed properly, so removing the mask during feeding is a reasonable and necessary intervention.
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