The early postpartum period is a time of emotional and physical ...

[BRWH]

The early postpartum period is a time of emotional and physical vulnerability. Many mothers can easily become psychologically overwhelmed by the reality of their new pa-rental responsibilities. Fatigue compounds these issues.
 
  Although the baby blues are a common occurrence in the postpartum period, about one-half million women in America experience a more severe syndrome known as postpartum depression (PPD). Which statement regarding PPD is essential for the nurse to be aware of when attempting to formulate a nursing diagnosis? a. PPD symptoms are consistently severe.
  b. This syndrome affects only new mothers.
  c. PPD can easily go undetected.
  d. Only mental health professionals should teach new parents about this condition.

Question 2

A child has experienced a near-drowning episode, and is admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. The parents express guilt over the near-drowning of their child. Which is the nurse's best response?
 
  1. You will need to watch the child more closely..
  2. Tell me more about your feelings..
  3. The child will be fine, so don't worry..
  4. Why did you let the child almost drown?

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Answer to Question 1

C

Feedback
A PPD symptoms range from mild to severe, with women having both good and bad days.
B Both mothers and fathers should be screened. PPD in new fathers ranges from 1 to 26.
C PPD can go undetected because parents do not voluntarily admit to this type of emotional distress out of embarrassment, fear, or guilt.
D The nurse should include information on PPD and how to differentiate this from the baby blues for all patients on discharge. Nurses also can urge new parents to report symptoms and seek follow-up care promptly if they occur.

Answer to Question 2

2
Rationale:
1 Telling the parents to watch the child more closely is judgmental.
2. In near-drowning cases, the nurse should be nonjudgmental, and should provide a forum for parents to express feelings of guilt.
3. Saying the child will be fine might not be true. The nurse should reassure the parents that the child is receiving all possible medical treatment.
4. Asking the parents why they let the child almost drown is judgmental.