The new breastfeeding mother is concerned that her full term infant isn't receiving enough food. What is an appropriate response from the nurse?

Choice A rationale This is an appropriate and reassuring response. Newborns have small stomach capacities and rapid gastric emptying, necessitating frequent feedings. Breastfeeding on demand, which translates to a minimum of 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours (or approximately every 2-3 hours), ensures the infant receives adequate caloric intake and promotes milk supply, which is critical for infant growth. Choice B rationale This statement is incorrect regarding the energy needs of a full-term infant. A healthy term newborn requires a significantly higher caloric intake for adequate growth and development, typically demanding around 100 to 110 kilocalories per kilogram of body weight per day (kcal/kg/day), not the low range of 10 to 20 kcal/kg daily suggested. Choice C rationale This statement is an oversimplification and potentially inaccurate reassurance. While consistent weight gain is the goal, newborns should typically be breastfed on demand, which is more often than every 3-4 hours, especially in the early weeks. Restricting feedings to every 3-4 hours may lead to inadequate intake and poor weight gain, contradicting a mother's concern. Choice D rationale This is incorrect and potentially harmful advice. Breast milk is composed of over 85.