A postpartum woman has been diagnosed with postpartum psychosis. Which of the following is essential to be included in the family teaching of this client?
Explanation & Rationale
A. The woman should never be left alone with her infant: Postpartum psychosis involves severe mood changes, delusions, and impaired reality testing that can place both the mother and infant at risk. Close supervision is required due to the potential for harm related to hallucinations or disorganized thinking. Continuous monitoring helps ensure infant safety during the acute phase of illness. B. Symptoms rarely last more than one week: Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency that often persists for weeks to months without appropriate treatment. Symptom duration varies depending on severity and response to therapy. Minimizing the expected course may delay recognition of ongoing risk. C. Clinical response to medications is usually poor: Postpartum psychosis generally responds well to antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and sometimes electroconvulsive therapy. Early treatment significantly improves outcomes and reduces relapse risk. D. The woman must have her vitals assessed every two days: While physical monitoring may be part of care, vital sign assessment alone does not address the psychiatric and safety concerns of postpartum psychosis. Ongoing mental status evaluation and supervision are far more critical. Vital sign frequency is not a primary teaching point for families.