ATI RN
Nursing Care of the Newborn Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is explaining to the new breastfeeding mother the types of neonatal stools the mother can expect. Which examples does the nurse provide? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because in the early days after birth, newborn stools transition from meconium to a yellow, seedy consistency with a sour odor. This is known as transitional stool. Residual meconium is not passed as loose watery stool (A) but as a sticky, tar-like substance. Sticky, thick, black stools do not necessarily indicate blood (B) but could be meconium. Stools do not become drier and more formed (C) until later in the infant's life.
Question 2 of 5
Which hormone is essential for milk production?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prolactin. Prolactin is the hormone essential for milk production in the mammary glands. It stimulates the production of milk by the alveoli in the breast tissue. Estrogen and progesterone are involved in the preparation of breast tissue during pregnancy, but they do not directly stimulate milk production. Lactogen is another name for human placental lactogen, which is not directly involved in milk production but plays a role in regulating maternal metabolism during pregnancy.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is an important consideration in positioning a newborn for breastfeeding?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer, A, is important because it ensures proper alignment for effective breastfeeding. Placing the infant at nipple level facing the breast helps the baby latch on correctly, promoting optimal milk transfer. Choice B is incorrect as the infant's head should be in line with the body to prevent swallowing issues. Choice C is incorrect because the fingers should support the breast underneath, not on top. Choice D is also incorrect as the baby should take in a sufficient amount of areola for a deep latch.
Question 4 of 5
As the nurse assists a new mother with breastfeeding, the mother asks, 'If formula is prepared to meet the nutritional needs of the newborn, what is in breast milk that makes it better?' The nurse's best response is that it contains
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: important immunoglobulins. Breast milk contains immunoglobulins that provide passive immunity to the newborn, protecting them from infections. This is crucial for the newborn's developing immune system. Choice A (more calcium) is incorrect as both breast milk and formula provide adequate calcium. Choice B (more calories) is incorrect as breast milk and formula have similar calorie content. Choice C (essential amino acids) is incorrect as both breast milk and formula contain essential amino acids, but breast milk's unique composition is the presence of immunoglobulins, making it superior for newborns.
Question 5 of 5
A breastfeeding patient who was discharged yesterday calls to ask about a tender hard area on her right breast. What should the nurse's first response be?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct response is D because a tender, hard area on the breast is likely a plugged duct, which can be relieved by massaging the area and applying heat to promote milk flow. This approach helps prevent further complications and encourages continued breastfeeding. Choice A is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's concern without providing helpful guidance. Choice B is incorrect because antibiotics are not typically necessary for a plugged duct unless it progresses to mastitis. Choice C is incorrect as stopping breastfeeding can worsen the condition and may lead to engorgement or mastitis.