Question

A new Native-American mother tells the nurse that when she goes home, her mother-in-law will be caring for the baby while she rests. The nurse is concerned, and her response should be to:

1) explain the importance of ambulating to recover.
2) explain the importance of maternal-infant bonding.
3) explore ways to blend this with safe health teaching.
4) encourage this cultural behavior.

Answer 1

The nurse should explore ways to blend cultural practices with safe health teaching, acknowledging the role of the grandmother and discussing how to balance rest, maternal-infant bonding, and the mother's health needs postpartum.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a new Native-American mother mentions that her mother-in-law will care for the baby while she rests postpartum, this expresses a cultural aspect of family and child-rearing practices. The nurse's response should respect and honor cultural traditions while ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and infant. Hence, the nurse's most appropriate response would be to explore ways to blend this cultural practice with safe health teaching. This acknowledges the important role of the grandmother, as well as the need for postpartum recovery and the importance of maternal-infant bonding. It could include discussing the balance between rest and ambulation, the benefits of skin-to-skin contact, and encouraging grandmother involvement in a way that supports maternal and newborn health. This holistic approach can foster positive health outcomes and cultural sensitivity.