Question

A postpartum woman with mastitis in the right breast complains that the breast is too sore for her to breast-feed her infant. The nurse should tell the client to implement which measure?

A. Apply a cold compress
B. Massage the breast before feeding
C. Avoid breastfeeding until the pain subsides
D. Warm compress before breastfeeding

Answer 1

A postpartum woman with mastitis should apply a warm compress before breastfeeding to increase circulation and reduce pain, facilitating more comfortable feeding despite the condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

To manage pain from mastitis in the right breast and facilitate breastfeeding, it is recommended that the client apply a warm compress before breastfeeding. The warmth helps to increase circulation, reduce pain, and stimulate milk flow, making it easier and more comfortable for the postpartum woman to breastfeed despite the mastitis. Massaging the breast can also be useful, but should be done gently to avoid exacerbating any discomfort. It's important to continue breastfeeding or pumping to maintain milk supply and prevent engorgement, and to seek medical advice for appropriate treatment of the mastitis, which may include antibiotics if bacterial infection is present.