Maternal NCLEX Practice Questions Related

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The postpartum client delivered a full-term infant 2 days previously. The client states to the nurse, “My breasts seem to be growing, and my bra no longer fits.” Which statement should be the basis for the nurse’s response to the client’s concern?

  • A. Rapid enlargement of breasts usually is a symptom of infection.
  • B. Increasing breast tissue may be a sign of postpartum fluid retention.
  • C. Thrombi may form in veins of the breast and cause increased breast size.
  • D. Breast tissue increases in the early postpartum period as milk forms.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Infection in the breast tissue results in flulike symptoms and redness and tenderness of the breast. It is usually unilateral and does not cause bilateral breast enlargement. Fluid is not retained during the postpartum period; rather, clients experience diuresis of the excess fluid volume accumulated during pregnancy. Fullness in both breasts would not be the result of thrombi formation. Symptoms of thrombi include redness, pain, and increased skin temperature over the thrombi. Breast tissue increases as breast milk forms, so a bra that was adequate during pregnancy may no longer be adequate by the second or third postpartum day.