I agree with Rachel that the wound should be cultured before instituting
antibacterial treatment. I recently visited a site from University of North
Carolina, UNC, (I believe) which had very good information on how to
culture breasts and nipples. In my opinion, with the severity of the
symptoms, this mother would also need systemic (oral) antibiotic treatment
and is at high risk for mastitis. I am sure you have counseled her on the
signs and symptoms to report.
I hope this url takes you to the culture site

http://www.mombaby.org/PDF/culture_protocol.2.0.pdf

Laurie Wheeler RN MN IBCLC
Mississippi USA

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