On day 3 of life, a newborn continues to require 100% oxygen by nasal cannula. The parents ask whether they can hold their infant during his next gavage feeding. Given that this newborn is physiologically stable, what response would the nurse give?
Parents are not allowed to hold infants who depend on oxygen.
You may hold your baby during the feeding.
You may hold only your baby’s hand during the feeding.
Feedings cause more physiological stress, so the baby should not be held during feedings.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Denying parents the ability to hold their infant can interfere with bonding. Physiologically stable infants on oxygen benefit from being held, as it supports emotional well-being and parent-infant attachment without compromising oxygen delivery.
Choice B rationale
Holding a physiologically stable infant during gavage feeding fosters bonding, reduces parental anxiety, and stabilizes the infant's physiological parameters, as tactile stimulation aids neurodevelopment without causing stress to the infant's cardiorespiratory system.
Choice C rationale
Handholding alone is insufficient to support bonding and emotional connection. Physiologically stable infants benefit from full body contact during feeding to promote warmth, comfort, and the release of calming hormones like oxytocin.
Choice D rationale
Physiologically stable infants do not experience increased stress during feeding when held. Holding provides comfort and reduces stress, improving the feeding experience and supporting parent-infant bonding and attachment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Support groups provide emotional connection, but they do not address immediate concerns like the parents' involvement in care, which is essential for fostering confidence and bonding with the baby.
Choice B rationale
Limiting visits could increase parental anxiety and hinder their emotional connection to their baby. Parental involvement in care improves attachment and reduces stress, making this suggestion counterproductive to emotional health.
Choice C rationale
Advising parents to avoid attachment disregards the importance of early bonding in the neonatal period, which plays a key role in long-term emotional and psychological development for both the child and the parents.
Choice D rationale
Regular updates and including parents in the baby’s care empower them, promoting attachment and reducing feelings of helplessness. Parent-infant interaction has been shown to enhance coping mechanisms and improve family dynamics.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 75 breaths per minute exceeds the normal range of 30 to 60 breaths per minute in neonates. Tachypnea indicates distress, which necessitates immediate intervention to prevent complications.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 96.5°F is below the normal neonatal range of 97.7°F to 99.5°F, suggesting hypothermia. This can impair enzyme activity, oxygen delivery, and thermoregulatory functions, requiring prompt warming measures.
Choice C rationale
Sucking or licking of the nipples reflects a positive response in kangaroo care, indicative of improved thermoregulation and bonding. This natural behavior also suggests a healthy neonate capable of initiating feeding.
Choice D rationale
Nasal flaring is a sign of respiratory distress, typically indicating increased effort to meet oxygen demands. This would not be considered a positive outcome and requires immediate evaluation and intervention.
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