Maternal mortality in the United States is the lowest of any industrialized country.

Choice A rationale

Engorgement is caused by milk overproduction or improper drainage rather than cracked nipples. While related to breastfeeding issues, it is not directly linked to cracked or bleeding nipples.

Choice B rationale

Mastitis is an infection of breast tissue that occurs due to milk stasis or blocked ducts. Cracked nipples increase infection risks, but mastitis is secondary to these infections.

Choice C rationale

Decrease in milk production is influenced by hormonal imbalances or poor latch rather than by cracked or bleeding nipples. It does not directly result from nipple trauma.

Choice D rationale

Cracked nipples create an entry point for bacteria, significantly increasing infection risks such as cellulitis or abscess formation. Proper hygiene and wound care are essential to reduce complications.

Choice A rationale

A soft fundus indicates uterine atony, an abnormal finding requiring immediate intervention. This teaching would lead to improper patient monitoring of complications such as hemorrhage.

Choice B rationale

Clots as large as a golf ball are not considered normal and may signal uterine atony or retained placental fragments, which necessitate medical intervention for hemorrhage risk.

Choice C rationale

Decreased brownish-red lochia may reflect normal postpartum changes as it progresses to serosa and alba but is not typically an indicator of complications.

Choice D rationale

Increased lochia or a return to bright red bleeding signals potential complications like subinvolution or late postpartum hemorrhage, which demand prompt medical attention.