A nurse is observing the electronic fetal heart rate monitor tracing for a client who is at 40 weeks of gestation and is in labor. The nurse should suspect a problem with the umbilical cord when she observes which of the following patterns?

Choice A reason:

This is incorrect because WIC does not provide immunizations for high-risk infants and children. Immunizations are provided by other health care services, which WIC may refer participants to.

Choice B reason:

This is incorrect because WIC does not screen for infants with developmental disorders. WIC provides nutrition education and referrals to other health and social services but does not diagnose or treat any medical conditions.

Choice C reason:

This is correct because WIC provides supplemental food supplies to low-income pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk. The food packages are designed to meet the special nutritional needs of the participants and include items such as fruits, vegetables, milk, cheese, cereal, bread, juice, peanut butter, eggs, and infant formula.

Choice D reason:

This is incorrect because WIC does not provide well-child examinations for infants and children living at the poverty level. WIC may refer participants to other health care services that provide such examinations but do not conduct them themselves.

Choice A reason:

Choice A is the correct answer because the number of wet diapers a newborn has per day is a reliable indicator of effective breastfeeding. When a baby is breastfeeding well and getting enough milk, they will have an adequate number of wet diapers, typically at least six to eight per day. The frequent wet diapers indicate that the baby is adequately hydrated, and their body is eliminating waste products as expected.

Choice B reason:

Choice B, having at least one breast milk stool every 24 hours, is not the most reliable indicator of effective breastfeeding, although it is an important consideration. The frequency of bowel movements can vary among breastfed infants, and some babies may have several bowel movements a day, while others may have fewer, even skipping a day. The number of wet diapers is a more consistent measure of sufficient milk intake.

Choice C reason:

Choice C, sleeping for 6 hours at a time between feedings, is not an accurate indicator of effective breastfeeding in a 4-day-old newborn. Newborns typically feed frequently, at least 8-12 times in 24 hours, and they may not sleep for extended periods between feedings at this age. Frequent feeding is essential for establishing a good milk supply and ensuring the baby receives enough nutrients.

Choice D reason:

Choice D, gaining 1 to 2 ounces per week, is also not the most reliable indicator of effective breastfeeding in the early days after birth. Weight gain can vary significantly in newborns, and a 4-day-old baby might not show the expected 1 to 2 ounces per week gain yet. Moreover, weight gain can be affected by factors other than breastfeeding, such as birth weight, initial fluid loss, and individual growth patterns.