The nurse is preparing to discharge a mother/baby couplet from the maternity unit. Which action by the parents requires further teaching?

Choice A reason: This statement indicates the parent's understanding that vacuum-assisted deliveries can sometimes lead to an increased risk of jaundice. The use of a vacuum can cause bruising on the baby's scalp, which can lead to the breakdown of red blood cells, thereby increasing bilirubin levels. Elevated bilirubin levels can cause jaundice in newborns. Recognizing this potential risk and monitoring the baby for signs of jaundice is an essential aspect of post-delivery care.

Choice B reason: Stating that the procedure was required because the baby was breech is incorrect. Vacuum-assisted delivery is typically used in cases where the baby is in a cephalic (head-first) position and there are difficulties in progressing through the birth canal, such as when the mother is exhausted, or the baby needs to be delivered quickly due to fatal distress. Breech presentations often necessitate a caesarean section instead of a vacuum-assisted delivery.

Choice C reason: The assertion that the vacuum was required because the mother did not dilate past 6 centimetres is inaccurate. Vacuum-assisted delivery is not related to cervical dilation but rather to difficulties encountered during the second stage of Labor (pushing phase). The decision to use a vacuum is made when the baby is in the birth canal, and additional assistance is needed to facilitate delivery.

Choice D reason: Stating that the baby’s head will be cone-shaped for about 2 months is also incorrect. While a vacuum-assisted delivery can result in a temporary cone-shaped head (known as "caput succedaneum" or melding), this typically resolves within a few days to weeks after birth. It is not expected to last for two months. Proper education should clarify the temporary nature of the head shape changes.

Choice A reason: Cheese sauce may be high in fat and sodium, but noodles with cheese sauce are generally safe for an 11-month-old infant to consume in moderation. The primary concern for infants' diet is ensuring that foods are safe to swallow and do not pose a choking hazard, which noodles do not.

Choice B reason: Honey is not recommended for children under one year old due to the risk of botulism, a serious illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Infants have underdeveloped immune systems that cannot fight off the toxin, making honey a potentially dangerous food choice for them.

Choice C reason: Cooked broccoli is generally a safe and nutritious food for an 11-month-old infant. It's a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. However, it should be soft enough for the infant to chew and swallow without risk of choking.

Choice D reason: Cut-up cherry tomatoes are appropriate for an 11-month-old infant as long as they are cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking. Cherry tomatoes provide essential nutrients like vitamins A and C and can be a healthy addition to an infant's diet.