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; Erythema toxicum is a common rash that appears in many newborns and is not a cause for concern. It presents as small red bumps or pustules on the skin and usually resolves on its own without treatment.
Choice B rationale: A Mongolian spot is a birthmark that appears as a bluish-gray or bruise-like patch on the baby's skin, often on the back or buttocks. It is a benign condition and does not require any medical intervention.
Choice C rationale: Telangiectatic nevi, also known as "stork bites" or "angel kisses," are flat, pink, or red birthmarks that are common in newborns. They are usually found on the eyelids, forehead, and back of the neck. These birthmarks are harmless and typically fade over time without treatment.
Choice D rationale: Jaundice is a common condition in newborns and is caused by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. In most cases, mild jaundice is not harmful and resolves on its own. However, if the baby's skin and sclera (white part of the eyes) show significant yellowing, it may indicate a higher level of bilirubin, which can lead to complications if not properly managed. Therefore, the nurse should report this finding to the provider for further evaluation and appropriate treatment if necessary.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. SGA newborns often have increased circulating RBCs (polycythemia) due to chronic hypoxia in utero, not decreased RBCs.
B. Blood glucose instability (hypoglycemia) is common in SGA newborns due to decreased glycogen stores and increased metabolic demands.
C. Retinopathy of prematurity is more commonly associated with preterm infants and prolonged oxygen therapy rather than SGA status.
D. SGA newborns typically have a scaphoid (sunken) rather than a well-rounded abdomen due to decreased subcutaneous fat stores.
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