A nursing mother complains that her breasts are tender. You assess hard, shiny, and erythemic breasts bilaterally. You should advise the patient to:
A) massage gently and continue nursing.
B) apply warm compresses and stop nursing.
C) monitor her temperature and restrict fluids.
D) sleep wearing a bra and wash her breasts with antibacterial soap.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient has mastitis. The aim of treatment is to promote breast drainage. You should not advise the patient to apply warm compresses and stop nursing. Applying warm compresses will not encourage breast milk flow, and stopping nursing will increase the risk of a breast infection turning into a breast abscess. Monitoring her temperature and restricting fluids do not encourage breast milk flow. Sleeping with a bra and washing the breasts with antibacterial soap do not encourage breast milk flow. Only mild soaps are advised; harsh soaps can dry and crack the nipple and compound infection.

A Nursing Mother Complains That Her Breasts Are Tender