Author Question: A newborn appears pale and weak, and laboratory tests reveal the infant has iron deficiency anemia. ... (Read 109 times)

KimWrice · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A newborn appears pale and weak, and laboratory tests reveal the infant has iron deficiency anemia. The mother asks the nurse if it would better to breastfeed her infant or feed him a formula high in iron. What should the nurse's response be?

1. Breastfeed, because breast milk has higher levels of iron compared to formula
2. Breastfeed, because although breast milk has lower levels of iron compared to formula, it is more easily absorbed by the infant
3. Formula-feed, because formula has higher levels of iron compared to breast milk
4. Formula-feed, because although formula has lower levels of iron compared to breast milk, it is more easily absorbed by the infant

Question 2

The patient at 20 weeks' gestation has not decided on a feeding method for her infant. She asks the nurse for advice. The nurse presents information about the advantages and disadvantages of formula-feeding and breastfeeding.

Which statements by the patient indicate that the teaching was successful?
1. Formula-feeding gives the baby protection from infections.
2. Breast milk cannot be stored; it has to be thrown away after pumping.
3. Breastfeeding is more expensive than formula-feeding.
4. My baby has a lower risk of food allergies if I breastfeed.

samiel-sayed · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Global Rationale: Breast milk contains lower levels of iron compared to formula, but it is more easily absorbed by the infant, so it will be beneficial to the anemic infant to breastfeed if possible.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Formula does not provide the baby with protection from infections like breast milk does.
Rationale 2: Breast milk can be refrigerated or frozen after pumping.
Rationale 3: Formula must be purchased, and therefore it is expensive.
Rationale 4: Breast milk provides newborns with immunoglobulins and reduces the risk of food allergies in children.