A client is experiencing galactorrhea. Which of the following should the nurse assess in this client? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Galactorrhea, the inappropriate discharge of milk-containing fluid from the breast, can be caused by various factors. Vigorous nipple stimulation (A) can lead to galactorrhea by stimulating prolactin release. Certain medications, including hormones, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants (B), can increase prolactin levels or affect the breast tissue, leading to galactorrhea. Herbal remedies like fennel or anise (C) have phytoestrogenic properties that can influence milk production. Street drugs, including opiates and marijuana (D), can affect dopamine levels and thus prolactin levels, potentially causing galactorrhea. Recent chest trauma (E) can directly stimulate the breast tissue or affect the pituitary gland indirectly, leading to galactorrhea. Age of menarche (F) is not directly related to the development of galactorrhea and is therefore not a relevant factor to assess in this context.

A Client Is Experiencing Galactorrhea