Question

The nurse provides feeding instructions to a parent of an infant diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Which instruction should the nurse give to the parent to assist in reducing the episodes of emesis?

A. Feed the infant quickly to minimize swallowing air
B. Position the infant supine after feeding
C. Use a smaller, firmer nipple on the bottle
D. Hold the infant upright for at least 30 minutes after feeding

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the parent to hold the infant upright for at least 30 minutes after feeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should give the instruction to the parent to hold the infant upright for at least 30 minutes after feeding in order to assist in reducing the episodes of emesis. Holding the infant upright helps to prevent the stomach contents from flowing back up into the esophagus, reducing the chances of emesis. This position allows gravity to help keep the stomach contents down and prevents the acid from irritating the esophagus.