Nursing Care of the Newborn Related

Review Nursing Care of the Newborn related questions and content

The most effective time to initiate breast-feeding is in which stage of reactivity for the neonate?

  • A. period of decreased reactivity
  • B. first period of reactivity
  • C. second period of reactivity
  • D. after the end of the second period of reactivity
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: first period of reactivity. During this stage, the infant is alert and eager to suckle, making it an optimal time to initiate breastfeeding. The infant's sucking reflex is strong, and they are more likely to latch on successfully. The other choices are incorrect because during the period of decreased reactivity (A), the infant is often drowsy and less interested in feeding. The second period of reactivity (C) may involve increased activity and may not be the best time to introduce breastfeeding. After the end of the second period of reactivity (D), the infant may be more settled and not as ready to breastfeed as during the first period of reactivity.