The nurse is talking to a parent of an infant with heart failure about feeding the infant. Which statement about feeding the child is correct?
A) "You may need to increase the caloric density of your infant's formula."
B) "You should feed your baby every 2 hours."
C) "You may need to increase the amount of formula your infant eats with each feeding."
D) "You should place a nasal oxygen cannula on your infant during and after each feeding."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The metabolic rate of infants with heart failure is greater because of poor cardiac function and increased heart and respiratory rates. Their caloric needs are greater than those of the average infants, yet their ability to take in the calories is diminished by their fatigue. Infants with heart failure should be fed every 3 hours; a 2-hour schedule does not allow for enough rest, and a 4-hour schedule is too long. Fluids must be carefully monitored because of the heart failure. Infants do not require supplemental oxygen with feedings.

The Nurse Is Talking to a Parent of an Infant