The perinatal nurse is teaching the patient about breastfeeding ...

[NClaborn]

The perinatal nurse is teaching the patient about breastfeeding and explains that which of the following is the most appropriate time to breastfeed?
 
  A.
  Four to 5 hours after the last feeding
  B.
  Only when her infant exhibits hunger-related crying
  C.
  When her infant is in a quiet alert state
  D.
  When her infant is in an active alert state

Question 2

A woman gave birth 12 hours ago. The patient complains of severe abdominal cramping when she breastfeeds her infant. The perinatal nurse should document this condition as which of the following?
 
  A.
  Afterpains
  B.
  Bladder hypertonia
  C.
  Rectus abdominis diastasis
  D.
  Uterine hypertonia

[guyanai]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The optimal time to breastfeed is when the baby is in a quiet alert state. Crying is usually a late sign of hunger and achieving satisfactory latch-on at this time is difficult. Latch-on is proper attachment of the infant to the breast for feeding. The neonate is most alert during the first 1 to 2 hours after an unmedicated birth, and this is the ideal time to put the infant to the breast.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Afterpains (afterbirth pains) are intermittent uterine contractions that occur during the process of involution. Afterpains are more pronounced in patients with decreased uterine tone due to overdistension, which is associated with multiparity and macrosomia. Breastfeeding and the administration of exogenous oxytocin usually produce pronounced afterpains because both cause powerful uterine contractions. Patients often describe the sensation as a discomfort similar to menstrual cramps.