What actions should a nurse take for a client who is 18 hours postpartum with a fourth-degree perineal laceration and a pain rating of 4?

Promoting the use of witch hazel pads is an appropriate action for a client who is 18 hours postpartum and experiencing perineal pain due to a fourth-degree laceration. Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the perineal area, reducing discomfort and promoting healing. Applying witch hazel pads can provide a cooling effect and help alleviate irritation, making it a good choice for managing localized pain post-delivery.

In the context of postpartum care, it’s important to address pain management effectively, especially with more severe lacerations. While other options like ice packs and sitz baths may also be beneficial for pain relief, the use of witch hazel specifically offers added soothing properties that can complement other interventions.

Relaxation techniques can certainly help with overall comfort and stress reduction, but they may not provide sufficient or immediate relief for acute pain associated with a significant perineal injury. Hence, while they are useful, they may not address the physical pain directly in the same manner as witch hazel pads do.