A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a parent of an infant who has gastroesophageal reflux. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Hematuria:

Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a common finding in urinary tract infections (UTIs). It occurs due to irritation and inflammation of the urinary tract lining, causing small blood vessels to leak blood into the urine.

B. Urinary frequency:

Urinary frequency, or the need to urinate more often than usual, is a classic symptom of a UTI. It occurs because the infection irritates the bladder lining, leading to a frequent urge to urinate even when the bladder is not full.

C. Polyuria:

Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not typically associated with uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Instead, UTIs usually cause urinary frequency without necessarily increasing the total volume of urine produced (polyuria).

D. Dependent edema:

Dependent edema, or swelling in the lower extremities due to fluid accumulation, is not a typical finding in urinary tract infections. UTIs primarily affect the urinary system and do not typically cause systemic fluid retention.

E. Dysuria:

Dysuria, or painful urination, is another hallmark symptom of urinary tract infections. It occurs due to inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract lining, making urination uncomfortable or even painful.

A. "I will have to feed my baby formula, rather than breast milk." - This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Breast milk is generally preferred for infants with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) because it is more easily digested and less likely to exacerbate reflux symptoms compared to formula. Breastfeeding mothers may be encouraged to continue breastfeeding, and formula-fed infants may benefit from specialized formulas designed to reduce reflux symptoms.

B. "I should move my baby into a side-lying position during sleep." - This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Placing an infant in a side-lying position during sleep is not recommended due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Instead, infants with GER should be placed on their back to sleep, as recommended by safe sleep guidelines. Elevating the head of the crib or bassinet slightly may also help reduce reflux symptoms during sleep.

C. "My baby's formula can be thickened with oatmeal." - This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Thickening formula with oatmeal or rice cereal can help reduce gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms in infants by making the formula heavier and less likely to reflux back into the esophagus. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure proper preparation and feeding technique.

D. "I will keep my baby in an upright position after feedings." - This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Keeping the baby in an upright position after feedings can help reduce reflux symptoms by allowing gravity to keep the stomach contents down. Parents can hold the baby upright on their shoulder or in an infant seat for a period of time after feeding to minimize reflux episodes.