The labor and delivery unit nurses are adopting methods to reduce the number of women who develop postpartum depression. Research from Dennis and Dowswell (2013) provides evidence-based suggestions regarding beneficial interventions. Which suggestions do the nurses consider? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Research from Dennis and Dowswell (2013) reveals that psychosocial and psychological interventions significantly reduce the number of women who develop postpartum depression. Beneficial interventions include telephone-based peer support, interpersonal psychotherapy, and professionally based postpartum home visits.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In postpartum complications, an assessment finding suggesting a possible infection is an elevated white blood cell count (WBCs 10,000). This is because an increased WBC count is a typical response of the body to an infection, indicating the presence of an inflammatory process. Option A, painful fundal massage, is more indicative of uterine atony or retained placental fragments rather than infection. Option B, breast-feeding every 2–3 hours, is a normal postpartum activity and does not specifically suggest infection. Option C, a pulse rate of 72, falls within the normal range and does not directly point towards infection. Educationally, understanding the significance of various assessment findings postpartum is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to detect and manage complications promptly. Recognizing the importance of interpreting lab values like WBC count can lead to early identification and treatment of infections, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the case of mastitis, which is an infection of the breast tissue that commonly occurs in breastfeeding individuals, the correct nursing intervention of providing antipyretics (Option A) is crucial. Antipyretics help to reduce fever, which is a common symptom of mastitis. By managing the fever, the person's overall comfort and well-being can be improved, and the body's ability to fight the infection can be supported. Option B, stopping antibiotics when redness is resolved, is incorrect because antibiotics should be completed as prescribed to ensure that the infection is fully treated and to prevent recurrence or development of antibiotic-resistant strains. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to treatment failure and potential complications. Encouraging the person to stop breastfeeding (Option C) is also incorrect. Continuing breastfeeding on the affected breast is actually recommended as it helps to drain the breast and promote healing. Ceasing breastfeeding abruptly can lead to engorgement, worsening of symptoms, and potential complications like abscess formation. Starting an IV and preparing for signs of sepsis (Option D) is not the initial nursing intervention for mastitis. While monitoring for signs of sepsis is important in severe cases, it is not the first-line intervention. Prompt administration of antipyretics, continuation of antibiotics, promoting breastfeeding, and providing supportive care are typically the primary nursing interventions for mastitis. Educationally, understanding the appropriate nursing interventions for mastitis is essential for providing effective care to individuals experiencing this condition. It is important for nurses to be knowledgeable about the management of mastitis to promote optimal outcomes for both the individual and their infant.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a perineal laceration infection postpartum, the correct nursing intervention of encouraging the use of a peri-bottle for cleaning front to back is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, proper perineal hygiene is essential in preventing infection and promoting wound healing. Using a peri-bottle helps to cleanse the area without causing trauma to the delicate tissues, reducing the risk of further complications. It also ensures that the cleaning is done in the correct direction to prevent the introduction of bacteria from the rectal area. The incorrect options can be explained as follows: A) Demonstrating the use of a urinary catheter is not relevant to managing a perineal laceration infection. Introducing a catheter may increase the risk of introducing pathogens into the urinary tract, leading to urinary tract infections. B) Providing an abdominal binder is not indicated for treating a perineal laceration infection. While an abdominal binder may provide support and comfort postpartum, it does not address the specific issue of infection in the perineal area. D) Discouraging the use of pain medications is not appropriate in this situation. Pain management is important for the patient's comfort and well-being. However, it is essential to ensure that any pain medications prescribed are safe and appropriate for the individual, considering factors such as breastfeeding. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the rationale behind each nursing intervention to provide safe and effective care to postpartum individuals with complications such as perineal laceration infections. Proper hygiene practices, wound care techniques, and pain management strategies are essential components of nursing care in this setting. Nurses should be knowledgeable about evidence-based practices to promote optimal outcomes for their patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding complications postpartum, such as postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), is crucial for healthcare providers. The characteristic of an early (primary) PPH being due to uterine atony is a fundamental concept. Uterine atony, where the uterus fails to contract effectively after delivery, is a primary cause of PPH and can lead to severe bleeding. Recognizing this characteristic is vital for prompt intervention to prevent maternal morbidity and mortality. Option A is incorrect because PPH, especially early PPH, typically occurs within 24 hours of delivery, not after 12 weeks postpartum. Option B is incorrect as PPH, especially due to uterine atony, is indeed an emergency requiring immediate intervention to prevent complications. Option D is incorrect as early PPH is diagnosed during the initial postpartum period, not after discharge. Educationally, understanding the causes and characteristics of PPH, such as uterine atony in early PPH, equips healthcare providers to recognize, intervene, and manage this potentially life-threatening complication effectively. This knowledge is essential for midwives, nurses, and physicians involved in maternal care to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and the newborn.