Question

A postpartum mother who is breastfeeding has developed mastitis. She states that she does not think it is good for her infant to drink milk from her infected breast. The best response from the nurse would be to:

1. instruct her to nurse the infant from only the unaffected breast until the infection clears up.
2. suggest that she discontinue breastfeeding and start the infant on formula.
3. encourage breastfeeding the infant to prevent engorgement.
4. apply tight breast binder to the infected breast until the infection subsides.

Answer 1

Option C. The best response to a mother with mastitis is to encourage continued breastfeeding to clear the infection and avoid engorgement. Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies and continuing to nurse can maintain milk supply.

Step-by-step explanation:

A postpartum mother who is breastfeeding and has developed mastitis may be concerned about the safety of breastfeeding from the infected breast. The best response in this situation is to encourage continued breastfeeding on the affected side to help clear the infection and to prevent engorgement, which can worsen the condition. Continuing to breastfeed helps maintain the milk supply and ensures that the infant receives the necessary nutrients, immunoglobulins, and enzymes that are vital for their development.

The mother should also be instructed to seek medical treatment for the mastitis, but it is generally safe and beneficial for the infant to continue receiving milk from the infected breast unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional. Applying a tight breast binder is not recommended, as it can worsen engorgement and inhibit milk flow. Discontinuing breastfeeding and switching to formula should not be the first step without exploring other effective treatments that can support the continuation of breastfeeding.