A postpartum client who is breastfeeding expresses concerns about breast engorgement and discomfort. What nursing intervention should be prioritized to alleviate symptoms?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention to alleviate breast engorgement and discomfort in a breastfeeding client is to encourage frequent breastfeeding or pumping sessions. Engorgement occurs when the breasts become overly full of milk, causing them to become swollen, firm, and painful. By ensuring that the baby breastfeeds frequently, the client can effectively empty the breasts, which helps to relieve engorgement and discomfort. Encouraging the client to breastfeed on demand and ensuring proper latching can help prevent further engorgement issues. Pumping can also be useful if the baby is unable to feed directly from the breast or to relieve engorgement between feedings. This intervention addresses the root cause of the problem and promotes the client's comfort and breastfeeding success. Applying cold packs, using a supportive bra or breast binder, and administering oral analgesics may provide some relief for discomfort but do not address the underlying issue of engorgement.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Assisting the client to a seated position on the toilet should be implemented first. This position promotes relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles and can help facilitate urinary elimination. It is a non-invasive and least intrusive intervention compared to performing intermittent catheterization or administering diuretic medication. Encouraging the client to drink plenty of fluids is important for promoting overall urinary function, but in this case, the priority is to aid the client in attempting to void first.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Persistent, severe abdominal pain, tenderness, and rigidity in a postpartum client can be indicative of serious conditions such as uterine rupture, hemorrhage, or infection, which require urgent medical attention. As a nurse, the priority action in this situation is to notify the healthcare provider immediately so that appropriate interventions can be initiated promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of the client. Administering analgesics or providing emotional support may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms and could potentially delay necessary medical treatment. Assisting the client to a comfortable position can be considered once the healthcare provider has been informed and appropriate assessments and interventions have been initiated.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presence of persistent, severe perineal pain along with ecchymosis and swelling of the perineum can indicate a complication such as a hematoma. A hematoma is a collection of blood that can occur in the perineal area postpartum, usually as a result of trauma during delivery. It is essential to notify the healthcare provider immediately to assess the situation, provide appropriate treatment, and prevent further complications. Applying ice packs or administering additional analgesic medication may not address the underlying issue of a possible hematoma, so prompt medical evaluation is crucial in this situation.