While a mother is feeding her high-risk neonate, the nurse ...

[scienceeasy]

While a mother is feeding her high-risk neonate, the nurse observes the neonate having occasional apnea, pallor, and bradycardia. What is the most appropriate nursing action?
 
  a. Let the neonate rest before breastfeeding again.
  b. Resume gavage feedings until the neonate is asymptomatic.
  c. Recognize that this may indicate an underlying illness.
  d. Use a high-flow, pliable nipple because it requires less energy to use.

Question 2

Which statement is true concerning the nutritional needs of preterm infants?
 
  a. The secretion of lactase is low.
  b. Carbohydrates and fats are better tolerated than protein.
  c. The demand for nutrients is less than in full-term infants.
  d. Breast milk lacks the proper concentration of nutrients.

[stallen]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Apnea, pallor, and bradycardia may be signs of an underlying illness. The infant should be evaluated to ensure he or she is not developing problems. The infant can rest while waiting for the evaluation. If the child is becoming ill, the capacity to digest enteral feedings may be compromised. The type of nipple that is being used should not produce the signs being observed.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The enzyme lactase is not readily available in an infant's body until after 34 weeks of gestation. Formulas containing lactose are not well tolerated. Carbohydrates and fats are less well tolerated than protein. Preterm infants require significantly higher intake of calories and other nutrients than full-term infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 105 to 130 kcal/kg/day. Breast milk from the infant's mother is considered the ideal enteral nutrition for the infant. Several commercial formulas are designed for preterm infants.

[scienceeasy]

Excellent

[dantucker]

TYSM