Question

"A new mother is seen in a health care clinic 2 weeks after giving birth to a healthy newborn infant. The mother is complaining that she feels as though she has the flu and complains of fatigue and aching muscles. On further assessment the nurse notes a localized area of redness on the left breast, and the mother is diagnosed with mastitis. The mother asks the nurse about the condition. The nurse should make which response?

1. Mastitis usually involves both breasts.
2. Mastitis can occur at any time during breast-feeding.
3. Mastitis usually is caused by wearing a supportive bra.
4. Mastitis is most common for women who have breast-fed in the past.

Answer 1

Mastitis can occur at any time during breast-feeding and it is an infection of the breast tissue. Treatment usually includes antibiotics and it is important to continue emptying the breast through breastfeeding or pumping.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct response for the mother diagnosed with mastitis would be that mastitis can occur at any time during breast-feeding. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. It is often caused by a blocked milk duct or bacteria entering the breast. It does not exclusively involve both breasts, and it is not commonly caused by wearing a supportive bra. Furthermore, it is not more common in women who have breast-fed in the past as first-time mothers are equally susceptible.

Mastitis can be treated with antibiotics and it is important for the mother to continue to breastfeed or pump to maintain milk flow and alleviate symptoms. It's noteworthy that if breastfeeding is stopped suddenly, like for the woman experiencing breast engorgement and leakage, the body may continue to produce milk leading to discomfort. In such instances, gradual weaning is advised to adjust the milk production.