Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

- Rapid pulse
- Throbbing pain and tenderness in the affected breast.
- A wedge shaped, indurated and reddened area of the
breast is seen on examination
Investigation and treatment
- A sample of breast milk is sent for bacteriological
examination and abroad spectrium antibiotic is given until
the causative organism is known
- Breast feeding should be suspended if pus is found in the
milk and the pump or hand expression.
- The breast must be gently supported and large pads of
cotton wool used to protect the painful infected area.
- If the infection is mild, breast feeding may be continued as
the anti infective properties of the milk protect the baby.
8.2.2 Breast Abscess
Acute puerperal mastitis may lead to abscess formation. If this
occurs the affected breast is extremely painful, edema` is
usually present and the breast becomes tense and red. The
axially glands become tender and enlarged. The abscess
must be incised and drained to prevent spread into other
areas of breast which would cause damage.
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