Final answer:
In response to a new mother experiencing nipple pain during breastfeeding, the Practical Nurse should assess the breastfeeding technique, educate on various positions and the use of safe creams, encourage frequent feeding to prevent engorgement and refer to a lactation consultant if pain continues.
Step-by-step explanation:
A new mother is breastfeeding her newborn for the first time after delivery and complains of nipple pain. In response to the client's complaint the Practical Nurse (PN) should first assess the breastfeeding technique to ensure that the baby is latching on properly to prevent further nipple soreness and damage. Proper latching involves a large portion of the areola and not just the nipple and the baby's mouth should be open wide with the lips turned outwards.
The areola contains glands that secrete an oily fluid, which lubricates and protects the nipple during breastfeeding. The PN should also educate the mother on different breastfeeding positions and the use of nipple creams or ointments that are safe for breastfeeding to alleviate pain. She should encourage the mother to feed often to prevent engorgement which can worsen nipple soreness, and to ensure a sufficient milk supply as dictated by the physiology of lactation, where prolactin levels rise in response to the baby's suckling to increase milk production. Lastly if nipple pain persists, it is important for the PN to refer the mother to a lactation consultant for further assistance.