Exhibits The nurse is assessing the client 24 hr later. How should the nurse interpret the findings? For each finding, click to specify whether the finding is unrelated to the diagnosis, an indication that the client's condition is improving, or an indication that the client's condition is worsening.

🧾 Explanation Moderate lochia rubra Normal up to 1–2 weeks postpartum. Not related to mastitis. Temperature 38.4°C Still febrile after 24 hrs of antibiotics → infection not yet controlled. Purulent nipple discharge New finding. Indicates possible breast abscess or worsening mastitis. Hemoglobin 12 g/dL Stable and within normal range. Not relevant to mastitis progression. WBC 35,000/mm³ Increased from 28,000 → worsening systemic inflammatory response. Decreased pain Symptomatically better, but this may reflect partial relief from antibiotics/analgesics rather than full resolution. Still, it’s a positive sign. Summary: Improving: Pain relief. Unrelated: Lochia rubra, hemoglobin. Worsening: Persistent fever, purulent nipple discharge, rising WBC. This mixed picture suggests partial response but possible complication (breast abscess). The nurse should notify the provider promptly, anticipate breast ultrasound to rule out abscess, and continue close monitoring.