How should a nurse respond when a postpartum client decides to have her baby returned to the nursery?

The appropriate response in this situation acknowledges the mother's feelings and prompts further discussion about her decision. By stating, "It seems that you've changed your mind about rooming in," the nurse validates the mother's choice and invites her to express her thoughts or concerns. This approach fosters open communication and helps the nurse understand the client's emotional state during the postpartum period.

In postpartum care, it is essential to support the mother’s autonomy and decisions. If she has decided to have her baby returned to the nursery, it may be due to various reasons including fatigue, anxiety, or a desire for some personal time. Acknowledging her decision without judgment encourages her to speak freely about her experience, which can provide valuable insights into her needs and concerns.

Responses that imply criticism or assumptions about the mother's abilities, such as suggesting she may be having difficulty caring for the baby, can discourage her from being honest about her feelings. Offering to do something for the mother like bringing the baby back only at feeding time could inadvertently ignore her current desire to rest or recoup. Thus, it’s crucial for nurses to employ language that is supportive and affirming, facilitating a trusting relationship between the nurse and the postpartum client.