The nurse is preparing a postpartum patient for discharge. For which reasons does the nurse instruct the patient to call the primary care provider? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct response is option A) Foul-smelling lochia. This is a sign of a potential infection, such as endometritis, which can be a serious complication postpartum. It is crucial for the nurse to instruct the patient to contact their primary care provider immediately if they notice foul-smelling lochia as this requires prompt medical attention to prevent further complications. Option B) Hot, red, painful breasts could indicate mastitis, which is a common postpartum complication. While this is a concern, it is not as urgent as foul-smelling lochia. The nurse should educate the patient about managing mastitis but does not need to contact the primary care provider immediately unless symptoms worsen. Option C) Mild headache is a common postpartum symptom and is usually not a cause for immediate concern. However, persistent or severe headaches should be reported to the primary care provider as they could indicate more serious issues like preeclampsia. Option D) Not sleeping well is a common issue postpartum due to the demands of caring for a newborn. While sleep deprivation can impact the mother's health, it is not typically a reason to contact the primary care provider unless it is severe and affecting the mother's ability to function. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the potential complications that can arise in the postpartum period and to educate patients on when to seek medical help. By prioritizing and differentiating between symptoms that require immediate attention versus those that can be managed with home care, nurses can help ensure the well-being of postpartum patients and their infants.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Exhibiting paternal depression during the pregnancy can be a risk factor for the development of PPND. An unexpected or unplanned pregnancy can be a risk factor for the development of PPND. The father’s estrangement from his parents and siblings can be a stressful life event and/or indicate a lack of social support.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) thrush. Thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans that can be passed between the breast-feeding person and newborn if not treated appropriately. It commonly presents as white patches on the inside of the baby's mouth or on the mother's nipples. Option A) wound infection is less likely to be transferred between the breast-feeding person and newborn as it usually involves a localized wound site. Option B) urinary tract infection is typically not directly transmitted between the breast-feeding person and newborn. Option D) mastitis is a common postpartum complication in breast-feeding individuals, but it is not directly transmissible to the newborn unless there is a severe systemic infection. Educationally, understanding the risks of postpartum infections and their transmission is crucial for healthcare providers caring for postpartum individuals and newborns. Proper education on prevention, early recognition, and treatment of these infections can help prevent complications and promote the health of both the mother and the newborn.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of postpartum complications, understanding the risk factors for postpartum infection is crucial for providing optimal care to postpartum women. Option A, precipitous labor, is the correct answer because it can lead to increased tissue trauma, which creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth and infection. In precipitous labor, the rapid delivery can cause lacerations or tears in the birth canal, increasing the risk of infection. Option B, urinary retention, does not directly increase the risk of postpartum infection. While urinary retention can lead to urinary tract infections if left untreated, it is not a direct risk factor for postpartum infections. Option C, breastfeeding, is not a primary risk factor for postpartum infection. Breastfeeding is beneficial for the mother and baby, providing numerous health benefits, and does not inherently increase the risk of postpartum infection. Option D, intact perineum, does not increase the risk of postpartum infection. An intact perineum means that there are no lacerations or tears, reducing the risk of infection compared to having perineal trauma. Educationally, understanding the risk factors for postpartum infections helps healthcare providers identify high-risk patients, implement preventive measures, and provide appropriate treatment promptly. By knowing which assessment data points increase the risk of postpartum infection, healthcare providers can offer individualized care and improve outcomes for postpartum women.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of postpartum wound infection, the correct nursing intervention to include in the plan of care is to assess for REEDA (Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation of wound edges). This is the correct answer because assessing for REEDA provides crucial information about the status of the wound infection, guiding appropriate treatment and interventions. Option A is incorrect because reassuring the postpartum person that the infection will resolve without antibiotics is not evidence-based practice and can lead to complications if the infection worsens. Option C is incorrect as waiting until the temperature is 99.0° F to call the healthcare provider may delay necessary treatment for the wound infection. Option D is incorrect as vigorous scrubbing of the incision with soap and water can further aggravate the wound and increase the risk of infection. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the significance of proper wound assessment techniques like REEDA in identifying and managing postpartum wound infections promptly. Teaching nursing students to prioritize assessment skills and evidence-based interventions in the care of postpartum individuals can improve patient outcomes and prevent complications.