A nurse is caring for a new mother who is breastfeeding her term newborn. The newborn weighed 3.4 kg (7.5 lb) at birth and weighed 3.3 kg (7.3 lb) on the second day of life. The mother expresses concern about the weight loss and asks the nurse about the amount of her breast milk. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
"A healthy newborn can lose 6% of his birth weight before starting to gain weight."
"Why don't you switch to formula to make sure your baby is eating enough?"
"It is common for new mothers to worry that they are not making enough milk for their baby."
"Your newborn will need to remain in the hospital so his weight can be monitored."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Weight loss in the first few days after birth is normal for newborns, and a weight loss of up to 7-10% of the birth weight is considered within the expected range. A 6% weight loss is within normal limits, and it is reassuring to inform the mother that this is typical.
Choice B rationale: Suggesting switching to formula is not necessary based on the weight loss described. Breastfeeding provides adequate nutrition for most newborns, and early weight loss is typical and not a cause for alarm.
Choice C rationale: While it is true that new mothers may worry about breastfeeding and milk supply, this response does not address the specific weight loss concern and might not fully reassure the mother.
Choice D rationale: A 6% weight loss is within the expected range for a newborn and does not warrant hospitalization. It is a normal finding, and most newborns will start to regain their birth weight within a few days of life.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Stopping breastfeeding is not an appropriate response to breast engorgement. Continuing to breastfeed frequently and effectively can help relieve the engorgement and ensure adequate milk supply.
Choice B rationale: While frequent breastfeeding is beneficial for both the baby and mother, this statement does not directly address breast engorgement.
Choice C rationale: Wearing a supportive bra during the daytime can actually help reduce breast engorgement and discomfort by providing gentle pressure and support to the breasts.
Choice D rationale: Breast engorgement is a common issue for breastfeeding mothers, especially during the early days after delivery. Applying cold compresses to the breasts before each feeding can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement, making it easier for the baby to latch onto the breast.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is elicited by making a loud noise or performing a sharp hand clap near the newborn. In response to the stimulus, the newborn will throw their arms and legs outward and then bring them back toward the center of the body.
Choice B rationale: Placing a finger at the base of the newborn's toes is not related to eliciting the Moro reflex. This action may elicit the Babinski reflex, which causes the toes to fan out and the big toe to dorsiflex.
Choice C rationale: This action may elicit the stepping reflex, where the newborn will make stepping movements when the soles of their feet touch a flat surface. It is not related to eliciting the Moro reflex.
Choice D rationale: Turning the newborn's head quickly to one side is not related to eliciting the Moro reflex. This action may elicit the asymmetric tonic neck reflex (ATNR), where the newborn will extend the arm and leg on the side their head is turned to and flex the opposite arm and leg.
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