A charge nurse is planning care for an infant who has failure to thrive. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
A.
Give the infant fruit juice between feedings.
B.
Use half-strength formula when feeding the infant.
C.
Assign consistent nursing staff to care for the infant.
D.
Keep the infant in a visually stimulating environment.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Assign consistent nursing staff to care for the infant.
Explanation:
Infants with failure to thrive (FTT) are at risk for a range of developmental, nutritional, and emotional issues due to inadequate growth and nutrition. A key component of their care is creating a stable and supportive environment that fosters trust and security. Assigning consistent nursing staff is crucial because it helps build a stable relationship between the infant and caregivers, which is essential for the infant’s emotional and developmental needs. Consistent caregivers can better understand the infant’s unique needs, preferences, and cues, providing more personalized and effective care. This continuity helps in assessing the infant’s progress more accurately and adjusting care plans as needed.
Here’s why the other options are less appropriate:
- A. Give the infant fruit juice between feedings.: Fruit juice is not recommended for infants, especially those with FTT, due to its high sugar content and low nutritional value compared to formula or breast milk. It can contribute to poor weight gain and does not provide the necessary nutrients needed for growth.
- B. Use half-strength formula when feeding the infant.: Using half-strength formula would reduce the calorie and nutrient intake necessary for proper growth. Infants with FTT need adequate nutrition to catch up on growth, and formula should be prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it meets their caloric and nutritional needs.
- D. Keep the infant in a visually stimulating environment.: While some sensory stimulation is important for development, an overly stimulating environment might not be ideal for an infant with FTT. Instead, a calm, nurturing environment that supports bonding and ensures the infant feels secure and cared for is more beneficial.
In summary, assigning consistent nursing staff ensures that the infant receives stable and individualized care, which is critical for addressing the complex needs associated with failure to thrive.