On postpartum day 2, a woman exhibits signs of sleep disturbances, irritability, agitation, and confusion. What condition does the nurse suspect?

The signs exhibited by the woman, including sleep disturbances, irritability, agitation, and confusion, are indicative of postpartum psychosis. This condition is a severe mental health disorder that can occur in the postpartum period and is characterized by an abrupt onset of symptoms, often occurring within the first few days to weeks after childbirth. The agitation and confusion can escalate quickly and may include delusions, hallucinations, and significant mood disturbances, making it a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.

Postpartum psychosis markedly differs from other conditions such as postpartum depression, which generally presents with persistent low mood and emotional changes over a longer period rather than the acute symptoms observed in this case. Additionally, while signs of trauma or stress might lead one to consider PTSD, it typically manifests later and isn't characterized by the intense confusion and agitation noted here. Sepsis, on the other hand, is primarily a systemic infection and would likely present with physical symptoms like fever, chills, or tachycardia, rather than the mood and cognitive disturbances observed.

Given these details, the presentation aligns clearly with postpartum psychosis, underscoring the need for timely assessment and treatment for the safety of the mother and the infant.