A home health care nurse is reinforcing teaching about breast engorgement with a client who is postpartum and is breastfeeding her newborn. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A rationale:

Cephalhematoma is the correct answer because it presents as a swelling on the newborn's head confined to one cranial bone and does not cross suture lines. It usually resolves on its own within a few weeks to months but can increase the risk of jaundice due to the breakdown of red blood cells in the hematoma.

Choice B rationale:

Nevus flammeus, also known as a port-wine stain, is a type of vascular birthmark. It presents as a flat, pink, or red mark on the skin and does not involve swelling of the head. This choice is unrelated to the findings described in the question and is therefore incorrect.

Choice C rationale:

Caput succedaneum refers to a diffuse, soft tissue swelling of the scalp that does cross suture lines. It is caused by pressure on the head during delivery, leading to edema and bruising. It typically resolves within a few days after birth.

Choice D rationale:

Molding refers to the shaping of the fetal head during childbirth as it passes through the birth canal. It may cause temporary elongation or molding of the head, but it does not present as a localized swollen area. This choice is not applicable to the findings mentioned in the question and is thus incorrect.

Rooting. Choice A rationale:

The Moro reflex is a startle reflex characterized by the infant's sudden extension and abduction of the arms in response to a loud noise or sudden movement. It is not involved in the initiation of sucking and is unrelated to breastfeeding.

Choice B rationale:

The rooting reflex is a crucial reflex that helps initiate sucking in newborns. When the infant's cheek is stroked or touched, they will turn their head toward the stimulus and open their mouth, preparing for feeding. This reflex helps the infant find the mother's nipple and begin breastfeeding effectively.

Choice C rationale:

The stepping reflex is a primitive reflex observed in newborns when held upright with their feet touching a solid surface. The baby will make stepping movements, mimicking walking. However, this reflex is not related to the initiation of sucking and breastfeeding.

Choice D rationale:

The Babinski reflex is a reflex in which the big toe extends upward and the other toes fan out when the sole of the foot is stimulated. This reflex is present in newborns and disappears as the child grows older. It is not involved in the initiation of sucking.