Question

The nurse provides care for a postpartum mother who has stopped breastfeeding her newborn. The client reports painful swollen breasts. Which nursing intervention does the nurse include in the client's plan of care?

A) Wear a snug-fitting supportive bra.
B) Have the client massage the breasts gently.
C) Place warm compresses on the breasts.
D) Expel some breast milk.

Answer 1

The best nursing intervention for a postpartum client with painful swollen breasts after stopping breastfeeding is to wear a snug-fitting supportive bra. This helps to manage engorgement and suppress further lactation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The postpartum client who has stopped breastfeeding and is experiencing painful swollen breasts is likely dealing with breast engorgement, a condition that can occur when the supply of breast milk is not being utilized after cessation of breastfeeding. The best nursing intervention for this condition is to wear a snug-fitting supportive bra. This helps to suppress lactation and provide support, which can alleviate discomfort.

During lactation, breast milk is synthesized and secreted in response to prolactin and oxytocin released when the baby suckles at the breast. If breastfeeding is stopped suddenly, the breasts can become engorged with milk, causing pain and swelling. To prevent further stimulation of milk production, it is generally not advised to massage the breasts, apply warm compresses, or expel any breast milk, as these actions could signal the body to continue milk production.