Complications of Postpartum Related

Review Complications of Postpartum related questions and content

The nurse is taking the postpartum patient’s vital signs. The newborn is across the room in the bassinet, and the postpartum person refuses to hold the newborn. What should the nurse do?

  • A. Call CPS for risk of child abuse
  • B. Ask the person if they are feeling depressed, hopeless, afraid, or overwhelmed.
  • C. Ask the health-care provider to order an antidepressant.
  • D. Discuss how good parents hold and talk to their newborns.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should ask the postpartum person if they are feeling depressed, hopeless, afraid, or overwhelmed. This is important because it can help assess the person's mental and emotional state, which could be contributing to their refusal to hold the newborn. It also shows empathy and support for the person's feelings.

Choice A is incorrect because calling Child Protective Services (CPS) would be premature and could escalate the situation unnecessarily. Choice C is incorrect as starting an antidepressant should only be considered after a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. Choice D is incorrect because it does not address the underlying issue of the person's emotional state and may come off as judgmental.