A nurse is reinforcing teaching with an adolescent who has type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following statements by the adolescent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason:

The client stating, "This test is to check if my baby has diabetes,” indicates a misunderstanding of the purpose of the 1-hr glucose tolerance test (GTT). The test is performed to screen for gestational diabetes in the mother, not to check the baby's diabetes status. Rationale: Gestational diabetes is a condition where high blood sugar levels develop during pregnancy, and it can affect both the mother and the baby's health.

Choice B reason:

The client mentioning, "If the result is higher than normal, I will need to be on insulin the rest of my life,” demonstrates a misconception about the implications of the 1-hr GTT. The 1-hr GTT is a preliminary screening test, and if the results are higher than normal, it indicates the need for further evaluation, but it does not immediately mean a lifetime dependence on insulin. Rationale: Insulin therapy may be required for managing gestational diabetes in some cases, but not necessarily for the rest of the mother's life.

Choice C reason:

The client saying, "If I forget and eat before the test, then I won't be able to have the test done,” indicates a misunderstanding of the test procedure. The 1-hr GTT requires fasting before the test, typically for 8 to 14 hours, to get accurate results. However, if the client mistakenly eats before the test, it doesn't mean they cannot have the test done at all; they may need to reschedule it after an appropriate fasting period. Rationale: Fasting is crucial for accurate glucose level measurement during the test.

Choice D reason:

The client stating, "If the results are high, then I need another test to see if I have gestational diabetes,” demonstrates a correct understanding of the 1-hr GTT. If the initial screening test shows elevated glucose levels, further testing, such as the 3-hour glucose tolerance test (GTT), is required to confirm the diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Rationale: The 3-hour GTT is a more comprehensive diagnostic test used to confirm or rule out gestational diabetes.

"I should start trying to breastfeed within an hour of having my baby.” Choice A reason:

The client's statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth is crucial for successful breastfeeding. This early initiation allows the baby to receive colostrum, which is rich in nutrients and antibodies, supporting the baby's immune system and providing essential nutrition during the initial stages of life. Additionally, early breastfeeding helps establish a strong bond between the mother and the baby while promoting the baby's suckling reflex.

Choice B reason:

The statement in Choice B is incorrect. Formula feeding between breastfeedings is not recommended in the early stages of breastfeeding, especially if the baby loses 5 percent of their birth weight. Newborns often lose some weight initially, which is normal, and it can be regained through effective breastfeeding. Supplementing with formula may interfere with establishing a good milk supply and the baby's ability to latch properly.

Choice C reason:

This statement in Choice C is incorrect. During breastfeeding sessions, it's essential for the baby to nurse on one breast fully before switching to the other breast. Allowing the baby to nurse for at least 10-15 minutes on each breast ensures they receive the hindmilk, which is higher in fat and essential for the baby's growth and development.

Choice D reason:

The statement in Choice D is incorrect. Offering a pacifier right after breastfeeding might interfere with the baby's feeding cues and lead to decreased breastfeeding frequency.

Newborns may suck for non-nutritive reasons, and offering a pacifier too soon can hinder proper breastfeeding establishment, as they may satisfy their sucking needs with the pacifier rather than nursing at the breast.