International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

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What is the recommendation for nipple care concerning thrush?

  1. Keep nipples moist

  2. Air dry nipples

  3. Apply antibiotic ointment

  4. Avoid all moisture

The correct answer is: Air dry nipples

The recommendation for nipple care concerning thrush is to air dry the nipples. This approach helps to reduce moisture, which can contribute to a fungal environment where thrush thrives. Allowing the nipples to air dry can promote healing and reduce the risk of exacerbating the condition. Maintaining dry skin is essential as Thrush, caused by an overgrowth of Candida, can lead to discomfort and complications if wetness is retained, as this fungus prefers warm, moist environments. Thus, air drying can be an effective strategy to manage symptoms and support recovery. While keeping the nipples moist could sound beneficial for other conditions, in the context of thrush, moisture can be counterproductive. Similarly, antibiotic ointments do not treat fungal infections like thrush, and avoiding all moisture can lead to other skin issues, such as cracking or irritation.