A nursing student is preparing a presentation on minimizing heat loss in the newborn.

Which of the following would the student include as a measure to prevent heat loss through conduction?

Choice A rationale

Administering psychotropic medication based solely on mild, transient mood symptoms, particularly without a provider's order or a formal psychiatric diagnosis, is inappropriate nursing practice. The symptoms described are more consistent with the common "baby blues," which are transient, self-limiting mood disturbances linked to hormonal shifts and adjustment; medication is typically reserved for diagnosed, persistent postpartum depression. Normal postpartum hormonal fluctuations (estrogen, progesterone) significantly contribute to this emotional lability, making non-pharmacological support the initial appropriate action.

Choice B rationale

An Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score of 3 is very low (normal range is 0–9; a score of ≥10 or an affirmative answer to question 10 suggests a need for follow-up) and does not meet the criteria for immediate referral for postpartum depression. The symptoms are more likely the self-limiting "baby blues," which affect 50-80.

Choice C rationale

The described symptoms—tearfulness, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy—along with the low EPDS score (3), are classic signs of "baby blues" (postpartum blues), a normal, transient condition peaking around day 4-5 and resolving by two weeks. The nurse's role is to provide empathetic reassurance, validation, and education about this common physiological and psychological adjustment to the sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone. This offers emotional support, which is the most appropriate initial intervention.

Choice D rationale

While anxiety may suggest fear, the conclusion that the client requires an extra hospital day is a presumptive and potentially inappropriate advocacy without a complete assessment or discussion. Hospital stays are determined by medical stability and established protocols. The primary intervention for the "baby blues" is psychoeducation and support, not necessarily an extension of the hospitalization, as the condition resolves spontaneously at home. —.

Choice A rationale

The transition of stool from black meconium to yellow, seedy, and loose is a key indicator of adequate breast milk intake and healthy intestinal function. By three to five days of life, an exclusively breastfed infant should have about three or more yellow, seedy stools per day, confirming effective transfer of nutrients and proper digestion of milk.

Choice B rationale

Newborns generally need to feed frequently, often every two to three hours (or eight to twelve times in 24 hours), especially during the initial weeks, because breast milk is easily and quickly digested. Sleeping for six hours without feeding, especially in the first few weeks, may indicate lethargy or inadequate calorie intake, not necessarily effective feeding.

Choice C rationale

While a good latch is essential for effective milk transfer, the duration of active feeding is typically longer than three to five minutes per breast, particularly when establishing a supply. Active, audible swallowing for 10 to 20 minutes per breast is a more reliable sign that the infant is taking in a sufficient volume of milk for proper growth and hydration.

Choice D rationale

A significant loss of birth weight (greater than 7-10 percent) suggests inadequate intake and is a sign of concern, not a positive indicator of feeding adequacy. Adequate intake is instead indicated by weight regain to birth weight by 10 to 14 days and a subsequent gain of about 15 to 30 g per day thereafter.