A nurse is teaching a client who is breastfeeding and has mastitis. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Limit the amount of time the infant nurses on each breast: Shortening feeding sessions can lead to incomplete emptying of the breasts, increasing milk stasis and worsening mastitis. Adequate drainage is essential to reduce infection risk and promote healing. B. Nurse the infant only on the unaffected breast until resolved: Avoiding the affected breast can lead to engorgement, further milk stasis, and prolonged infection. Continuing to feed from both breasts helps maintain milk flow and relieves pressure in the infected area. C. Completely empty each breast at each feeding or use a pump: Full emptying of the breasts reduces milk stasis, which is a primary factor contributing to mastitis. Frequent and effective milk removal helps resolve inflammation, decreases bacterial proliferation, and supports ongoing lactation. D. Wear a tight-fitting bra until lactation has ceased: Tight or restrictive bras can compress breast tissue, impair milk flow, and exacerbate mastitis. Loose, supportive bras are recommended to allow adequate drainage and comfort.