A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is at 20 weeks of gestation and has type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to maintain scheduled mealtimes is essential for a postpartum client with type 1 diabetes mellitus who is breastfeeding. Consistent and balanced meals help stabilize blood glucose levels, especially in diabetic clients who need to manage their insulin.

Choice B rationale:

Checking blood glucose levels every 8 hours is not appropriate for a postpartum client with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Diabetic clients typically need to monitor their blood glucose more frequently, especially after meals and during breastfeeding.

Choice C rationale:

Instructing the client to take more insulin with each meal than she did prior to pregnancy is not accurate advice. The insulin requirements may change during pregnancy, but it is essential to follow the healthcare provider's guidance on adjusting insulin doses after delivery.

Choice D rationale:

Limiting carbohydrate intake to 30 grams per day is not suitable for a breastfeeding postpartum client with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Carbohydrates are a crucial source of energy, and breastfeeding mothers usually require more carbohydrates to support lactation and energy needs. Restricting carbohydrates to such a low level could be harmful.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not include the information about beginning Kegel exercises 6 to 7 weeks after delivery because Kegel exercises are pelvic floor exercises that help improve bladder control and should be started earlier, immediately after childbirth. Delaying the exercises for 6 to 7 weeks could result in weaker pelvic floor muscles and potentially exacerbate postpartum urinary issues.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should not include the information that the client doesn't need to use birth control if exclusively breastfeeding. While exclusive breastfeeding can provide some natural contraceptive effect, it is not a reliable method, and there is still a risk of pregnancy during the postpartum period. The nurse should advise the client to use appropriate birth control methods to prevent unintended pregnancies.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer. The nurse should include information about the client's breasts becoming firm and tender 3 to 5 days after delivery. This is a normal physiological response known as engorgement, which occurs as the breasts prepare for breastfeeding.

Choice D rationale:

The nurse should not inform the client that her bleeding will remain bright red for the next 6 to 8 weeks. While some postpartum bleeding is normal (known as lochia), the color and amount of bleeding change over time. Initially, it is bright red and gradually transitions to a lighter color over the following weeks.