A nurse is preparing to measure an infant’s vital signs.

Which of the following sites should the nurse use to assess the heart rate?

Choice A rationale
Postpartum depression is characterized by severe mood swings, crying too much, difficulty bonding with the baby, withdrawing from family and friends, loss of appetite or eating much more than usual, inability to sleep or sleeping too much, overwhelming tiredness or loss of energy. While some of these symptoms overlap with the ones mentioned in the question, postpartum depression is usually more severe and lasts longer.
Choice B rationale
The letting-go phase is the final phase of maternal adjustment during which the mother moves forward from her existing role to take on a new one as a parent. This phase is characterized by reestablishment of relationships with others, resumption of sexual intimacy, resolution of physical symptoms, and attainment of a new normal. The symptoms mentioned in the question do not align with this phase.
Choice C rationale
Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious mental health illness that can affect a woman soon after she has a baby. Symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, a manic mood, a low mood, loss of inhibitions, restlessness, and severe confusion. The symptoms mentioned in the question do not align with this condition.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct answer. Postpartum fatigue is characterized by extreme tiredness that doesn’t get better with rest or sleep. This fatigue can make it difficult for the new mother to care for herself and her baby. The symptoms mentioned in the question - tearfulness, insomnia, lack of appetite, and a feeling of letdown - are all common symptoms of postpartum fatigue.

Choice A rationale
Applying a pressure dressing four hours after discharge is not typically recommended following a cardiac catheterization. The site of the catheter insertion is usually covered with a simple dressing and observed for any signs of bleeding or swelling.
Choice B rationale
While it’s important to monitor for signs of impaired circulation, such as a cool extremity, this is not the primary concern following a cardiac catheterization. The procedure involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel, not typically affecting the peripheral temperature of the extremities.
Choice C rationale
Administering acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain as needed is a common recommendation following procedures like a balloon angioplasty. Pain can result from the catheter insertion site and these medications can help manage it.
Choice D rationale
Maintaining a clear liquid diet for 24 hours after discharge is not typically necessary following a cardiac catheterization. Once the child is alert, they are usually provided with clear liquids and later something to eat.