Which statement by a newly delivered woman indicates that she knows what to expect regarding her menstrual activity after childbirth?

A. Provide a sitz bath to a client who has a fourth-degree laceration and is 2 days postpartum: A sitz bath for a client with a fourth-degree laceration should be performed by the nurse or an experienced healthcare professional because it involves specific care to prevent infection and manage the laceration appropriately. It also requires assessment of the healing process, which is beyond the AP's scope of practice.

B. Change the perineal pad of a client who just transferred from labor and delivery: Changing a perineal pad is within the scope of the AP's role. This task involves basic hygiene care that can be safely delegated as it does not require clinical judgment or assessment.

C. Observe an area of redness on the breast of a client who is 1 day postpartum: Observing for signs of infection, such as redness on the breast, requires assessment and clinical judgment, which should be performed by the nurse, as it could be indicative of mastitis or other complications.

D. Monitor vital signs during admission of a client who has gestational hypertension: Monitoring vital signs is a task that can be delegated to the AP; however, given the potential for complications from gestational hypertension (such as preeclampsia), the nurse needs to be closely involved in assessing and managing the client's condition.

A. Reinforce postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching: While reinforcing teaching about postpartum care is important, the priority action is to assess the client’s emotional and mental well-being, as there are signs of possible depression or more severe emotional distress.

B. Assist the family to identify prior use of positive coping skills in family crises: While assessing coping skills can be beneficial in supporting the client, the immediate concern is the client's mental state and potential risk to herself or her newborn, which requires prompt attention.

C. Ask the client if she has considered harming her newborn: This is the priority action. The client’s report of feeling "down," sad, having no energy, and wanting to cry may indicate postpartum depression or more severe conditions like postpartum psychosis, which could pose a risk to both the client and her newborn. Asking directly about harm to the newborn is crucial for ensuring safety and guiding the next steps for care.

D. Anticipate a prescription by the provider for an antidepressant: While antidepressants may be prescribed for postpartum depression, the priority is to assess the client's safety first and intervene as needed before proceeding with treatment options. The provider will determine the appropriate treatment based on a comprehensive evaluation.