A nurse is assessing a postpartum client 3 weeks after delivery. The client reports feelings of guilt and incompetence as a parent along with a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. What condition should the nurse consider?

A. Postpartum depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, guilt, inadequacy, loss of interest in activities (anhedonia), sleep disturbances, and difficulty bonding with the infant. It typically occurs within the first few weeks to months after delivery and lasts longer than 2 weeks. At 3 weeks postpartum, ongoing guilt and loss of interest are consistent with postpartum depression. B. Postpartum blues, commonly referred to as baby blues, usually begin within the first few few days after delivery and resolve within 10 to 14 days. Symptoms include mild mood swings, tearfulness, and anxiety, but they are transient and less severe. The client’s symptoms lasting 3 weeks exceed the typical duration of postpartum blues. C. Baby blues is another term for postpartum blues and is characterized by short-term emotional lability shortly after birth. It does not involve persistent feelings of guilt, incompetence, or loss of interest lasting several weeks. Therefore, this is not the most appropriate answer. D. Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe condition that includes hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, confusion, and potential risk of harm to self or the infant. The client is not exhibiting psychotic symptoms, so this diagnosis is not supported by the assessment findings.