Nursing Care of the Newborn Related

Review Nursing Care of the Newborn related questions and content

The nurse is explaining to the new breastfeeding mother the types of neonatal stools the mother can expect. Which examples does the nurse provide? Select all that apply.

  • A. Residual meconium is passed as loose watery stool.
  • B. Sticky, thick, black stools indicate a presence of blood.
  • C. Stools will eventually become drier and more formed.
  • D. Golden yellow, a pasty consistency, and sour odor is expected.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because in the early days after birth, newborn stools transition from meconium to a yellow, seedy consistency with a sour odor. This is known as transitional stool. Residual meconium is not passed as loose watery stool (A) but as a sticky, tar-like substance. Sticky, thick, black stools do not necessarily indicate blood (B) but could be meconium. Stools do not become drier and more formed (C) until later in the infant's life.