A nurse is evaluating a client who just attended a breastfeeding class. Which of the following statements by the client demonstrates that she has understood the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "I will make sure that my baby has at least six wet diapers a day.": After the first week of life, at least six wet diapers per day indicates adequate hydration and sufficient breast milk intake. Urine output is a reliable indicator of effective breastfeeding and appropriate milk transfer. Monitoring diaper count helps assess nutritional adequacy. B. "I can reuse any breast milk my baby does not drink for the next feeding.": Once a baby has fed from a bottle, bacteria from the infant’s mouth can contaminate the remaining milk. Reusing leftover milk increases the risk of bacterial growth and infection. Expressed breast milk that has been partially consumed should be discarded. C. "I will feed my baby each time he cries.": Crying is a late sign of hunger. Early hunger cues include rooting, sucking motions, and hand-to-mouth movements. Waiting until the infant cries may make latching more difficult and interfere with effective feeding. D. "I can give my baby water following each feeding.": Exclusively breastfed infants do not require supplemental water. Breast milk provides adequate hydration, even in warm climates. Giving water can interfere with feeding patterns and may lead to inadequate caloric intake or electrolyte imbalance.