A client who delivered a healthy newborn 4 weeks ago calls her provider's office and tells the nurse, "This baby constantly cries. My partner works all the time, and I can't take any more.”. Which of the following responses is the nurse's priority?

Choice A rationale "Tell me about your baby. Where is she now?" is the priority response because it immediately assesses the safety and well-being of the baby. The mother's statement suggests potential distress and inability to cope, raising concerns about the infant's care. Choice B rationale "Do you have a friend who could help you?" explores the client's support system, which is important but secondary to ensuring the immediate safety of the baby. Choice C rationale "Having a newborn must be stressful" is an empathetic statement that acknowledges the client's feelings. While therapeutic, it does not address the potential immediate needs and safety of the baby. Choice D rationale "Do you have other children?" gathers information about the client's family situation, but it is not the priority when there is a potential concern about the well-being of the newborn. .