Discussion - Post Partum Case Study
Mastitis Case Study: A 36 yo post-partum patient comes to the office for her 2 week follow-up
for a Caesarean Section birth. She is doing well other than her complaint of a painful area in her
right breast. Upon exam of the right breast the examiner identifies a 3 cm area that is red,
tender and warm to touch on the right lateral aspect of the nipple area. The patient states that
she has been having difficulty breastfeeding due to the discomfort. She has had a temp of 100F
for the last 2-3 days. PMH: unremarkable. Prenatal history: S/P Repeat Caesarean Section 2
weeks ago due to previous C-section. NKA. No meds. Assessment: Mastitis of right breast.
Based on this case study:
1. Provide 3 differential diagnoses along with rationale and ICD codes.
2. What additional assessment/information would you anticipate?
3. What are the potential complications of mastitis?
4. What treatment plan would you anticipate?
5. What is the plan of care if this mother wants to continue to breastfeed?
6. What educational information would you want to discuss related to the prevention of
mastitis?
7. If this patient is prescribed antibiotics, would breastfeeding be contraindicated?
Mastitis Case Study: A 36 yo post-partum patient comes to the office for her 2 week follow-up
for a Caesarean Section birth. She is doing well other than her complaint of a painful area in her
right breast. Upon exam of the right breast the examiner identifies a 3 cm area that is red,
tender and warm to touch on the right lateral aspect of the nipple area. The patient states that
she has been having difficulty breastfeeding due to the discomfort. She has had a temp of 100F
for the last 2-3 days. PMH: unremarkable. Prenatal history: S/P Repeat Caesarean Section 2
weeks ago due to previous C-section. NKA. No meds. Assessment: Mastitis of right breast.
Based on this case study:
1. Provide 3 differential diagnoses along with rationale and ICD codes.
2. What additional assessment/information would you anticipate?
3. What are the potential complications of mastitis?
4. What treatment plan would you anticipate?
5. What is the plan of care if this mother wants to continue to breastfeed?
6. What educational information would you want to discuss related to the prevention of
mastitis?
7. If this patient is prescribed antibiotics, would breastfeeding be contraindicated?
