A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is pregnant and reports having trouble sleeping.

Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Having the baby latch on to both the nipple and areola during breastfeeding is essential for effective milk transfer and optimal breastfeeding. The baby should take in a good portion of the areola along with the nipple to ensure a proper latch and a comfortable feeding experience for both the mother and the baby. This allows the baby to obtain enough milk and stimulates milk production in the mother.

Let's briefly discuss the other statements:

A- "My baby should breastfeed 5 to 10 minutes on each breast": The duration of breastfeeding can vary from baby to baby, but it is generally recommended to allow the baby to breastfeed until they are satisfied and have emptied one breast before switching to the other breast. This ensures that the baby receives both the foremilk and the hindmilk, which are important for adequate nutrition.

B- "I should not wake my baby during the night to breastfeed": In the early days after birth, it is important to establish frequent and regular breastfeeding to support milk production and ensure the baby receives enough nourishment. Newborns typically need to breastfeed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, including during the night. If the baby is sleeping for a long period, it may be necessary to wake them for feeding to ensure proper nutrition and hydration.

C- "I should keep my baby on a strict feeding schedule": Breastfeeding should be based on the baby's cues and demand rather than a strict schedule. Newborns should be breastfed whenever they show hunger signs, such as rooting, sucking motions, or increased alertness. This helps establish a good milk supply and allows the baby to feed according to their individual needs.

Regular physical exercise has been shown to promote better sleep. Engaging in daily exercise can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, promote relaxation, reduce anxiety and stress, and increase overall sleep quality. It is important to note that exercise should ideally be done earlier in the day, at least a few hours before bedtime, as exercising too close to bedtime may actually have a stimulating effect and make it harder to fall asleep.

The other options listed are not the most appropriate recommendations for addressing difficulty in falling asleep:

1. "Sleep longer hours on the weekend." This suggestion may disrupt the client's sleep routine and can lead to inconsistent sleep patterns throughout the week, potentially making it more challenging to fall asleep on subsequent nights.
2. "Keep the television volume low while you are trying to fall asleep." It is generally recommended to create a sleep-friendly environment, which includes reducing external stimuli like noise, light, and electronic devices in the bedroom. However, watching television right before bedtime can interfere with sleep as the bright light and stimulating content can keep the mind awake.
3. "Remain in bed until you fall asleep." This recommendation may contribute to increased frustration and anxiety if the client is unable to fall asleep quickly. It is generally advised to practice good sleep hygiene, which includes getting out of bed if unable to fall asleep after a reasonable amount of time and engaging in a relaxing activity until feeling sleepy again.