Author Question: A new mother who is breastfeeding complains of sore and cracked nipples. What would be the best ... (Read 121 times)

chads108 · **on:** Jul 17, 2018

A new mother who is breastfeeding complains of sore and cracked nipples. What would be the best nursing interventions to help alleviate this problem?

A) Reposition the infant.
B) Shorten the feeding period.
C) Swab the nipple with alcohol.
D) Apply cold compresses to the nipple.

Question 2

The nurse is taking care of a client in a healthcare facility. Which nursing action is the best in breaking a link in the chain of infection?

A) Cover one's mouth and nose when sneezing.
B) Place contaminated linens in a paper bag.
C) Use personal protective equipment sparingly.
D) Wear gloves with patient care.

scrocafella · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 17, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Feedback:
Improper positioning is most often the cause of sore nipples. The suction of the baby at the breast is strongest in the first minutes of feeding, so a longer feeding period may actually reduce the chance of nipple soreness, rather than make it worse. Also, changing the position in which the mother holds the baby at the breast for each feeding session helps to change the area of greatest suction. Treatment of sore nipples includes swabbing the affected nipple with breast milk (not alcohol) and allowing it to air dry; wearing a nursing bra and leaving the flaps down for a few minutes after feeding to air dry the nipples; changing breast pads when wet; and assisting the infant to latch on to the nipple and areola properly. Cold compresses are not recommended.

Answer to Question 2

A
Feedback:
Covering one's mouth and nose when sneezing prevents airborne droplets from escaping into the air for others to contract in the chain of infection. Contaminated linens need to be placed in moisture-proof bags, as linen acts as a fomite, thus allowing the chain to continue. Personal protective equipment must be worn whenever the clinical situation warrants it. Gloves must be worn when coming in contact with body secretions and have to be changed between patient contacts.