A nurse in a clinic is teaching the mother of a 4-month-old infant who has been breastfed. The mother plans to switch her infant to an iron-fortified formula. Which of the following should be included in the teaching?
Iron is poorly absorbed in infants.
Iron facilitates growth of bones in infants.
Iron stores in infants begin to deplete.
Iron facilitates development of vision in infants.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Iron is not poorly absorbed in infants; in fact, infants absorb iron quite efficiently. Breast milk contains a small amount of iron, but it is highly bioavailable and well-absorbed. When switching to formula, it is important to use iron-fortified options to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Choice B Reason:
While iron is essential for overall growth and development, including bone growth, it is not the primary reason for emphasizing iron in infant nutrition. The key concern with iron, especially when transitioning from breastfeeding, is the prevention of iron deficiency anemia, which can affect cognitive and motor development.
Choice C Reason:
This is the correct information to include in the teaching. Infants are born with a reserve of iron that begins to deplete around 4 to 6 months of age. It is crucial to introduce iron-fortified formula at this time to ensure the infant continues to receive adequate iron for development and to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Choice D Reason:
Iron does play a role in the development of the nervous system, which can indirectly affect vision, but it is not specifically known for facilitating the development of vision in infants. The primary concern with iron intake in infants relates to its role in preventing anemia and supporting overall growth and development.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Observing for meconium in respiratory secretions is crucial for SGA newborns because they are at increased risk for meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). MAS occurs when a newborn breathes in meconium-stained amniotic fluid into their lungs, which can cause respiratory distress. It is more common in full-term or post-term babies, and early detection and treatment are vital for improving outcomes.
Choice b reason:
Monitoring for hyperglycemia is important as SGA newborns are at risk for blood sugar imbalances. Hyperglycemia in newborns can be due to various factors, including stress, and requires careful management to prevent complications. However, it is not the primary concern immediately post-delivery for SGA newborns compared to the risk of MAS.
Choice c reason:
Monitoring for hyperthermia is less commonly a primary concern for SGA newborns immediately after birth. Hyperthermia can lead to dehydration and increase metabolic demands, which can be harmful to newborns. However, the immediate risk of hyperthermia is not as high as the risk of MAS for SGA newborns.
Choice d reason:
Identifying manifestations of anemia is important in newborn care. Anemia in newborns can present as pale skin, irritability, and a fast heart rate. While it is a condition that requires attention, the immediate post-delivery concern for SGA newborns is typically the risk of MAS rather than anemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Establishing IV access is necessary for potential fluid or blood replacement, but it is not the immediate priority over assessing the current physiological status of the fetus.
Choice B rationale: Monitoring the amount and color of vaginal bleeding is a vital assessment, but it does not provide direct information regarding the fetal response to the placental complication.
Choice C rationale: Assessing the fetal heart rate via external monitoring is the priority to ensure fetal well-being and detect distress, as the fetus is at high risk for hypoxia in placenta previa.
Choice D rationale: Glucocorticoids are administered to promote fetal lung maturity in anticipation of a preterm birth, but this intervention occurs after the initial assessment of fetal and maternal stability.
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