NCLEX PN Exam Cram Related

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A nurse is weighing a breastfed 6-month-old infant who has been brought to the pediatrician's office for a scheduled visit. The infant's weight at birth was 6 lb 8 oz. The nurse notes that the infant now weighs 13 lb. What action should the nurse take?

  • A. Tell the mother to decrease the daily number of feedings because the weight gain is excessive.
  • B. Tell the mother that the infant's weight is increasing as expected.
  • C. Tell the mother that the infant should continue with breast milk as the weight gain is adequate.
  • D. Tell the mother that semisolid foods should not be introduced until the infant's weight stabilizes.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to inform the mother that the infant's weight gain is normal. Infants typically double their birth weight by 6 months, which is precisely the case here, with the infant's weight increasing from 6 lb 8 oz to 13 lb. This weight gain indicates healthy growth and development. Therefore, there is no need to decrease feedings. The infant should continue with breast milk as it is providing adequate nutrition. Additionally, introducing semisolid foods is usually recommended between 4 and 6 months of age, so there is no indication to delay based on the infant's weight gain.