A patient is on a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet.
What type of foods can the patient eat?

Choice A rationale

Introducing whole milk at 6 months is generally too early. At this age, an infant's primary nutrition should still come from breast milk or formula, which are specifically formulated to meet their developmental needs. The infant's digestive system is still maturing and may not be fully ready to process the higher protein and fat content of whole cow's milk.

Choice B rationale

Transitioning to whole milk at 8 months is also typically premature. While some infants might show readiness signs earlier, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until closer to 12 months. Introducing whole milk too soon can displace the intake of breast milk or formula, potentially leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron.

Choice C rationale

Waiting until 10 months is closer to the recommended timeframe, but most guidelines still advise waiting until 12 months. This allows the infant's digestive system more time to mature and ensures they receive optimal nutrition from breast milk or formula for a longer duration. Early introduction of whole milk doesn't offer any significant nutritional advantages over breast milk or formula during this period.

Choice D rationale

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends transitioning to whole cow's milk around 12 months of age for most infants. By this time, their digestive system is more mature and capable of handling the nutrients in whole milk. Additionally, most infants at this age are consuming a wider variety of solid foods, which helps ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs beyond just milk.

Choice A rationale

Verifying tube placement is the initial critical step to ensure the feeding is delivered into the gastrointestinal tract and not the respiratory system, thereby preventing aspiration. Methods for verification include pH testing of aspirate (target pH ≤ 5.5), and radiographic confirmation is the gold standard, especially after initial placement.

Choice B rationale

Checking the residual feeding contents before administering a new feeding is essential to assess the client's tolerance to the previous feeding and prevent overfeeding, which can lead to complications like abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, and aspiration. A high residual volume may indicate delayed gastric emptying.

Choice C rationale

Administering the feeding follows confirmation of tube placement and assessment of residual volume. The feeding should be administered at the prescribed rate and volume, ensuring the client receives adequate nutrition and hydration. The client should be positioned with the head of the bed elevated at least 30-45 degrees during and for at least 30-60 minutes after feeding to minimize aspiration risk.

Choice D rationale

Evaluating the client's tolerance to the feeding is an ongoing process that involves monitoring for signs and symptoms such as abdominal distension, pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or aspiration. This evaluation helps determine if the feeding regimen needs adjustment in terms of rate, volume, or formula.