Question

A client who is breast-feeding her baby experiences pain, redness, and swelling of her left breast 9 days postpartum. She is diagnosed with mastitis. The nurse teaching the client how to care for her infected breast should include which information?

a) Apply ice packs to the affected breast
b) Massage the affected breast vigorously
c) Encourage the use of tight-fitting bras
d) Ensure complete emptying of the breast during feedings

Answer 1

To care for her infected breast, the nurse should ensure complete emptying of the breast during feedings, massage the affected breast gently, and avoid tight-fitting bras.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that can occur when a nursing mother develops a blockage in one of her milk ducts. To care for her infected breast, the nurse should ensure complete emptying of the breast during feedings. This helps to relieve the pain, redness, and swelling and promotes healing. Massage of the affected breast can also be helpful, but it should be gentle and not vigorous. Applying warm compresses to the affected breast can help with the pain and promote blood flow. Tight-fitting bras should be avoided as they can constrict circulation and impede healing.