A new mother asks the LPN/LVN, 'How do I know that my daughter is getting enough breast milk?' Which explanation should the nurse provide?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer to the question is option B: "Your milk is sufficient if the baby is voiding pale straw-colored urine 6 to 10 times a day." This response is the most appropriate because it addresses a key indicator of adequate breast milk intake in infants. In the early days of breastfeeding, new mothers often worry about whether their baby is getting enough milk. The frequency and color of a baby's urine can be a reliable indicator of proper hydration and milk intake. Pale straw-colored urine indicates that the baby is well-hydrated, which is directly linked to adequate milk consumption. Option A, weighing the baby daily, can be misleading as weight gain alone is not always a direct indicator of successful breastfeeding. Some babies may have variations in weight gain due to factors other than milk intake. Option C suggesting offering extra bottle milk can interfere with establishing a proper breastfeeding routine and can lead to overfeeding. Option D recommending bottle feeding as a solution undermines the benefits of breastfeeding and does not address the mother's concerns effectively. In the educational context, it is crucial for nurses to provide evidence-based information to support mothers in their breastfeeding journey. Understanding the signs of adequate milk intake is essential for new mothers to gain confidence in their breastfeeding experience. By explaining the significance of urine color as an indicator of hydration and milk intake, nurses can empower mothers to trust their bodies and continue breastfeeding successfully.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the healthcare provider to take when a laboring client's blood pressure drops after receiving a continuous epidural anesthetic is to place the woman in a lateral position (Option C). This position helps to improve venous return to the heart, thus increasing blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs. Option A is incorrect because notifying the healthcare provider or anesthesiologist immediately may cause a delay in implementing the appropriate intervention. Option B of continuing to assess the blood pressure every 5 minutes is not the most proactive response when the client is experiencing a significant drop in blood pressure. Option D, turning off the continuous epidural, is not the initial action to take as it may lead to inadequate pain management for the client during labor. Educationally, it is important to understand the rationale behind positioning interventions in managing hypotension post-epidural administration. Lateral positioning is a non-invasive and effective way to address hypotension in this context, promoting student nurses' understanding of evidence-based practice in maternity care. It also highlights the importance of prompt intervention to ensure client safety and optimal outcomes during labor and delivery.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The priority action in this scenario is to check the infant's oxygen saturation rate. This will provide crucial information on the infant's oxygen levels and the need for immediate oxygen therapy. Assessing oxygen saturation is essential in determining the severity of hypoxia and guiding further interventions to ensure adequate oxygenation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Vernix caseosa is a white, cheesy substance that acts as a protective barrier on the skin of newborns, particularly present in skin folds. It helps to prevent dehydration and protect the delicate skin of the newborn from the amniotic fluid in utero. Educating expectant parents about the presence and function of vernix caseosa can help them understand the importance of its preservation during the immediate postnatal period.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The LPN/LVN should encourage the laboring client to begin pushing when the cervix is completely dilated to 10 centimeters. Pushing before full dilation can lead to cervical injury and ineffective labor progress. By waiting for complete dilation, the client can push effectively, aiding in the descent of the baby through the birth canal.