Which statement best describes an essential element of discharge teaching for a newborn and mother?

• A. Focus solely on newborn care
• B. Include only follow-up appointment scheduling
• C. Include safe sleep and feeding guidelines, lactation support, wound care, pain management, and follow-up plans
• D. Avoid discussing mental health

Answer: (C)

Discharge teaching after birth should prepare both mother and newborn for home care, covering safety, feeding, and ongoing health needs. The best answer includes safe sleep and feeding guidelines, lactation support, wound care, pain management, and a clear plan for follow-up. Safe sleep instructions reduce the risk of SIDS and should be part of every newborn discharge teaching. Feeding guidance helps ensure adequate intake whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, and lactation support helps the mother achieve exclusive or successful mixed feeding if that’s her goal. Wound or incision care is important for healing after vaginal or cesarean birth, and pain management helps the mother recover comfortably and functionally. A concrete follow-up plan ensures timely evaluation of both the infant and the mother, with instructions on when to seek care for concerning signs. Mental health matters should also be addressed, including screening for postpartum mood changes and providing resources, because the mother’s well-being directly affects safety and care at home.

Other options fall short because they’re incomplete: focusing only on newborn care ignores the mother’s recovery and safety needs; scheduling alone misses essential home-care topics; and avoiding discussion of mental health can miss early signs of postpartum mood disorders that impact both mother and infant.