Question

An adolescent client comes to the clinic 3 weeks after the birth of her first baby. She tells the nurse she is concerned because she has not returned to her pre-pregnant weight. Which action should the

nurse perform first?
A) Review the client's weight pattern over the year
B) Ask the mother to record her diet for the last 24 hours
C) Encourage her to talk about her view of herself
D) Give her several pamphlets on postpartum nutrition

Answer 1

Option C. The nurse should first encourage the adolescent to talk about her view of herself. This assesses emotional well-being and informs further nutritional counseling and support. Immediate postpartum weight loss is not expected as the body is still adjusting.

Step-by-step explanation:

If an adolescent client comes to the clinic concerned about not returning to their pre-pregnant weight three weeks after the birth of their first baby, the nurse should first encourage her to talk about her view of herself (Option C). This initial action allows the nurse to assess the client's emotional and psychological well-being and provides insight into potential body image concerns that might require addressing. This discussion can also inform subsequent nutritional counseling and support.

It's important to note that substantial weight gain during pregnancy is normal due to factors such as the growing fetus, amniotic fluid, placenta, and increased blood volume. Within the first few weeks postpartum, it is common for the body to still be adjusting, and immediate return to pre-pregnancy weight is not typical. The nurse may later review the client's weight pattern, dietary habits, and provide educational materials to support her postpartum recovery, but these steps come after the initial conversation.