A mother who is 2 weeks postpartum asks the nurse lactation specialist how she knows if her baby is hungry. Which hunger indicator does the nurse discuss?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Opening the mouth in response to tactile stimulation is a sign of hunger in newborns, as it indicates readiness to feed. Crying when all other physical needs are met is a sign of hunger, but it may not be the first cue and indicates that the baby is already quite hungry. Timing of feeding (2 to 3 hours) may not be a reliable indicator as newborns may cluster feed or have longer or shorter intervals between feedings. The let-down sensation in the mother’s breast is not necessarily an indicator of the baby’s hunger.

A Mother Who Is 2 Weeks Postpartum Asks the Nurse