The nurse is preparing to discharge a mother/baby couplet from the maternity unit. Which action by the parents requires further teaching?

Choice A reason: Providing patients with information regarding postpartum depression is crucial. Educating patients about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for postpartum depression helps raise awareness and encourages early detection and intervention. Knowledge empowers patients and their families to seek help if needed.

Choice B reason: Encouraging patients to focus on positive aspects of pregnancy and birth is generally beneficial for emotional well-being, but it is not a specific strategy for addressing postpartum depression. Focusing solely on positive aspects may inadvertently dismiss the real and serious concerns of those experiencing postpartum depression.

Choice C reason: Consulting with the patient's spiritual advisor can be supportive, but it is not a primary strategy for addressing postpartum depression. While spiritual support can be a valuable component of holistic care, it should complement, not replace, medical and psychological interventions.

Choice D reason: Avoiding the assessment of suicidal thoughts to not upset the patient is dangerous and counterproductive. It is essential to assess for suicidal ideation in patients with postpartum depression to ensure their safety and provide appropriate interventions. Open and compassionate discussions about mental health are critical in addressing postpartum depression effectively.

Choice A reason: Burping the baby on their shoulder is a common and effective method to help release air that the baby may have swallowed during feeding. It does not require further teaching.

Choice B reason: Swaddling the baby in the bassinet can help the baby feel secure and sleep better. However, it is important to ensure that the swaddle is not too tight and that the baby's hips can move freely to prevent hip dysplasia.

Choice C reason: Placing the baby on their side for sleep is not recommended due to the increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The safest sleep position for babies is on their back, on a firm mattress, without any loose bedding or soft toys.

Choice D reason: Waking the baby for feedings is often necessary, especially in the early weeks, to ensure that the baby gets enough nutrition and maintains an adequate weight gain. It does not require further teaching.