The 34-year-old G1P1 patient who just delivered a healthy baby via cesarean section four hours ago. The patient sits on the bed watching her newborn lying in the bed but does not touch or hold the baby. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? 

Correct

  • “You should start breastfeeding the baby as soon as possible.”
  • “Do you want to talk about how you are feeling?”
  • “If I were you I’d be holding the baby every chance I could.”
  • “You will learn to love the baby soon.”

Rationale

The patient is most likely experiencing postpartum blues or depression. It is characterized by feelings of irritability, anxiety, and other signs of depression following the delivery. The condition is more common among women who have perinatal issues such as marital and financial problems, lack of social support, and recent death of loved ones. It is important for the nurse to attend the needs of the patient and allow her to express her emotions and feelings. It is not appropriate to immediately impose on the patient love and care for the baby, because it may reinforce her animosity.

  • Category: Psychosocial Integrity
  • Difficulty: 5
  • Tags: Mental Health Disorders Communication & Documentation Crisis Management Endocrine Neonatal Care Neurology Postpartum Care

Question 63 of 75

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