A nurse is caring for an infant who has gastroesophageal reflux. The nurse should place the infant in which of the following positions after feeding?

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.

The correct answer is Choice D: Contraction lasting 85 seconds.

Choice A rationale: A contraction resting period of 35 seconds is normal and expected during labor. The resting period allows the uterine muscle to relax and replenish its oxygen supply, which is essential for fetal well-being. The resting period also gives the client a chance to rest and cope with the pain of labor. A normal resting period ranges from 30 to 90 seconds, depending on the stage and phase of labor¹².

Choice B rationale: A heart rate of 100/min for a 10-min period is within the normal range for an adult. The normal resting heart rate for an adult is 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm)³. During labor, the heart rate may increase due to factors such as pain, anxiety, dehydration, fever, or infection. However, a heart rate of 100/min is not considered a sign of distress or complication, unless it is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations⁴⁵.

Choice C rationale: Four contractions in a 10-min period is a normal frequency for labor contractions. The frequency of contractions refers to how often they occur, measured from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next. The normal frequency of contractions varies depending on the stage and phase of labor, but generally ranges from two to five contractions in 10 minutes¹².

Choice D rationale: A contraction lasting 85 seconds is too long and should be reported to the provider. The duration of contractions refers to how long they last, measured from the beginning to the end of one contraction. The normal duration of contractions ranges from 30 to 70 seconds, depending on the stage and phase of labor¹². A contraction lasting longer than 90 seconds is considered a prolonged contraction, which can reduce the blood flow and oxygen supply to the placenta and the fetus, leading to fetal hypoxia and acidosis. Prolonged contractions can also cause uterine rupture, placental abruption, or maternal hemorrhage .