Mrs. J. Mrs. J. was a 38 year old who just delivered her second child. She was referred to the Certified Home Health Agency by the hospital discharge planner for follow-up assessment and teaching regarding the care of her newborn.

It has been more than 10 years since the birth of her last child and Mrs. J. was anxious.

The nurse who visited her the day after her release from the hospital assessed Mrs. J's physical status and that of Mrs. J's. baby. She discussed expected signs and symptoms that would signal the return of Mrs. J.'s body to its normal physical state. She also reviewed nutritional requirements that would promote her recovery as well as assisted Mrs. J. in scheduling her day to accommodate both her need for rest and the baby's feeding. A large part of the nurse's instruction centered on breast feeding as this was a primary concern to Mrs. J.

The nurse also instructed Mrs. J. on the care of the baby's umbilicus, need for frequent feeding and skin care.

At the conclusion of the nurse's several visits, Mrs. J. was independent with her baby's care and knowledgeable in what was normal or expected.

Mrs. J. is now a confident and happy mother of two.