A breastfeeding patient who is 5 weeks postpartum calls the clinic and reports that she is achy all over, has a temperature of 100.2°F, and has pain and tenderness in her right breast. What is the nurse’s best response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the patient's symptoms of achiness, fever, and pain in the breast are indicative of mastitis, a common breast infection in breastfeeding women. Prompt evaluation and treatment are necessary to prevent complications.
Choice B is incorrect as engorgement typically occurs in the first few days postpartum, not at 5 weeks.
Choice C is incorrect because stopping breastfeeding can worsen the infection and affect milk production.
Choice D is incorrect as the symptoms described are more likely due to an infection rather than just sleep deprivation.