A breastfeeding patient who was discharged yesterday calls to ask about a tender hard area on her right breast. What should the nurse's first response be?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A plugged lactiferous duct results in localized edema, tenderness, and a palpable hard area. Massage of the area followed by heat will cause the duct to open. This is a normal deviation but requires intervention to prevent further complications. Tender hard areas are not the signs of an infection, so antibiotics are not indicated. Fatigue, aching muscles, fever, chills, malaise, and headache are signs of mastitis. She may have a localized area of redness and inflammation.

A Breastfeeding Patient Who Was Discharged Yesterday Calls to Ask