A nurse is planning to introduce complementary foods to an infant who is six months old and exclusively breastfed.

Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend as a good source of zinc?

Cover the newborn’s eyes with a mask or shield.This is because phototherapy can cause eye damage and the mask or shield protects the newborn’s eyes from the light.

Some additional explanations are:

• Choice A is wrong because increasing fluid intake by 25% to prevent dehydration is not necessary for a newborn receiving phototherapy.The newborn should be fed on demand or according to a regular schedule and monitored for signs of dehydration such as poor skin turgor, dry mucous membranes, sunken fontanels, and decreased urine output.

• Choice C is wrong because applying lotion or oil to the newborn’s skin to prevent drying is not recommended for a newborn receiving phototherapy.Lotion or oil can increase the absorption of light and cause skin burns.

• Choice D is wrong because turning off the phototherapy lights during feedings is not advised for a newborn receiving phototherapy.The lights should be on continuously to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the duration of exposure.

I will drink at least eight glasses of water every day.This statement indicates that the client understands the importance of hydration for breast milk production and the prevention of constipation.

Some possible explanations for the other choices are:

• Choice A is wrong because iron supplements are not necessary for breastfeeding mothers unless they have anemia.Iron supplements can also cause constipation and stomach upset in some women.

• Choice C is wrong because dairy products are not harmful for breastfeeding mothers or their infants, unless there is a history of allergy or intolerance.Dairy products can provide calcium, protein and vitamin D for the mother and the infant.

• Choice D is wrong because infants should not be given any solid foods before 6 months of age, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.Introducing solids too early can interfere with breastfeeding, increase the risk of allergies and infections, and cause choking or aspiration.