A newborn appears pale and weak, and laboratory tests reveal the infant has iron deficiency anemia. The mother asks the nurse if it would better to breastfeed her infant or feed him a formula high in iron. What should the nurse's response be?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Breastfeeding is the best choice for infants with iron deficiency anemia because although breast milk has lower levels of iron compared to formula, it is more easily absorbed by the infant. Breast milk also contains vitamin C, which helps with the absorption of iron. Additionally, breast milk provides a host of other nutritional benefits for the infant's overall health and development.

A Newborn Appears Pale and Weak, and Laboratory Tests Reveal