Word parts
What it means
A condition in which part of the breast becomes inflamed, usually in the first weeks of breastfeeding. It often starts when milk is not emptied well and bacteria, most often Staphylococcus aureusstaf-uh-loh-KOK-us AW-ree-usA common round bacterium that often lives on the skin and in the nose and can cause infection.Full entry , get in through a cracked nipple. The area becomes red, hot, swollen and painful, and the person may have fever, chills and aches.
For the nurse
Teach the client that breastfeeding or pumping can usually continue and helps it heal. Encourage rest, fluids, a good latch and changing feeding positions, and teach them to finish the full antibiotic course if one is ordered.
At a glance
| Spanish | mastitis |
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Related terms
-itis
A word ending that means inflammation.
Staphylococcus aureus
A common round bacterium that often lives on the skin and in the nose and can cause infection.
breast milk
The milk made by the breasts to feed a baby.