A breast-feeding mother who was discharged yesterday calls to ask ...

[Medesa]

A breast-feeding mother who was discharged yesterday calls to ask about a tender hard area on her right breast. The nurse's first response should be:
 
  a. Try massaging the area and apply heat; it is probably a plugged duct.
  b. Stop breast-feeding because you probably have an infection.
  c. Notify your doctor so he can start you on antibiotics.
  d. This is a normal response in breast-feeding mothers.

Question 2

To prevent nipple trauma, the mother should be taught to:
 
  a. Limit the feeding time to less than 5 minutes.
  b. Position the infant so the nipple is far back in the mouth.
  c. Assess the nipples before each feeding.
  d. Wash the nipples daily with mild soap and water.

[upturnedfurball]

Answer to Question 1

A
A plugged lactiferous duct results in localized edema, tenderness, and a palpable hard area. Massage of the area followed by heat will cause the duct to open.
Fatigue, aching muscles, fever, chills, malaise, and headache are signs of mastitis. She may have a localized area of redness and inflammation.
These are not the signs of an infection, so antibiotics are not indicated.
This is a normal deviation but requires intervention to prevent further complications.

Answer to Question 2

B
If the infant's mouth does not cover as much of the areola as possible, the pressure during sucking will be applied to the nipple, causing trauma to the area.
Stimulating the breast for less than 5 minutes will not produce the extra milk the infant may need.
Assessing the nipples for trauma is important, but it will not prevent sore nipples.
Soap can be drying to the nipples and should be avoided during breast-feeding.

[Medesa]

Great answer, keep it coming

[gcook]

TYSM