Postpartum Care Nursing Questions Related

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Prior to discharge from the birthing center, the nurse informs the patient that she will receive vaccines for rubella, hepatitis B, pertussis, and influenza. For which reason does the nurse explain the need for the vaccinations?

  • A. Discharge with a neonate is discouraged if the mother is not vaccinated.
  • B. Vaccinating the mother will protect the neonate from serious illnesses.
  • C. The mother's immune system has been suppressed during pregnancy.
  • D. Vaccination is more easily accomplished while the mother is under medical care.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice B is correct:
1. Vaccinating the mother will stimulate her immune system to produce antibodies against rubella, hepatitis B, pertussis, and influenza.
2. These antibodies can pass through the placenta to the neonate, providing passive immunity and protecting the baby from serious illnesses.
3. Newborns have immature immune systems, making them vulnerable to infections, so maternal vaccination is crucial.
4. This approach also helps protect the neonate during the early months when they are too young to receive vaccines themselves.

Summary of why the other choices are incorrect:
A. Discharge with a neonate is not contingent on the mother's vaccination status.
C. The mother's immune system is not necessarily suppressed during pregnancy; vaccination is still recommended.
D. Vaccination can be done post-discharge, but protecting the neonate is the primary reason for vaccinating the mother before discharge.