The nurse instructs a class of postpartum women on methods to avoid nipple soreness while breastfeeding.
Which comment by a class participant indicates the need for further instruction?

The correct answer is choice B. A multipara is a woman who has given birth more than once.

After delivery, the uterus contracts to return to its normal size and position.

However, in multiparas, the uterine muscles may be weaker and less able to contract effectively.

This can lead to a condition called uterine atony, where the uterus does not contract enough to prevent bleeding.

Uterine atony can also cause the uterus to descend into the vagina, which is called a prolapsed uterus.

Therefore, multiparas need frequent uterine fundal assessments to monitor the tone and position of the uterus and prevent complications.

Choice A is wrong because breast care teaching is important for all postpartum women, regardless of parity.

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can occur in any woman who is breastfeeding or not.

It is not more common in multiparas.

Choice C is wrong because a strict toileting schedule is not necessary for multiparas.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, usually from the urethra.

UTIs are not more common in multiparas, unless they have other risk factors such as catheterization, diabetes, or sexual activity.

Choice D is wrong because an “as needed” order for an analgesic may not be adequate for multiparas.

Pain after delivery can vary depending on the type and duration of labor, the size and position of the baby, and the use of anesthesia or episiotomy.

Multiparas may experience more pain due to stretching of the pelvic muscles and ligaments, or due to afterpains, which are contractions of the uterus that occur after delivery.

Therefore, multiparas may need regular doses of analgesics to manage their pain effectively.

The correct answer is choice B. Apply ice to her perineal area.This is because ice can help reduce swelling and pain in the episiotomy wound, which is a cut made in the tissue between the vagina and anus during childbirth.Ice should be applied for the first 24 to 48 hours after delivery.

Choice A is wrong because Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, are not recommended for the first 12 hours after an episiotomy.They can increase blood flow and inflammation in the area, and may interfere with healing.

Choice C is wrong because keeping her hips slightly elevated can cause pressure on the episiotomy wound and increase discomfort.It can also affect blood circulation and drainage in the area.

Choice D is wrong because observing her perineal area for signs of infection is not a nursing action that should be included in her plan of care for the first 12 hours.Infection is rare in episiotomy wounds, and signs of infection usually appear after 24 hours or later.However, the nurse should teach the patient how to keep the area clean and dry, and when to report any signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or foul-smelling discharge.

Normal ranges for episiotomy healing are:

• Stitches dissolve within 2 to 4 weeks

• Pain and swelling subside within a few days to a week

• Wound heals completely within 4 to 6 weeks