Question

The nurse visits at home a client who delivered a healthy newborn 2 days ago. The client is complaining of breast discomfort. The nurse notes that the client is experiencing breast engorgement. Which instructions should the nurse provide to the client regarding relief of the engorgement? Select all that apply.

A. Encourage the use of cold compresses between feedings.
B. Advise the client to limit breastfeeding to every 4 hours.
C. Suggest the use of a supportive bra.
D. Recommend warm showers before breastfeeding.

Answer 1

To alleviate breast engorgement, the nurse should recommend using cold compresses between feedings, wearing a supportive bra, and taking warm showers before breastfeeding. Limiting breastfeeding is not advised, as it can worsen engorgement.

Step-by-step explanation:

To relieve breast engorgement, the nurse should provide the following instructions to the client:

• Use of cold compresses between feedings to help reduce swelling and pain.
• Suggest the use of a supportive bra to provide comfort and reduce the risk of plugged ducts.
• Recommend warm showers before breastfeeding to help stimulate milk flow and ease the discomfort of engorgement.

It is important not to advise the client to limit breastfeeding to every 4 hours, as regular breastfeeding helps to manage milk supply and could alleviate engorgement.