Question

Nipple feeding is likely to be successful if it is attempted once an infant reaches a gestational age of

A. 28 weeks
B. 30 weeks
C. 32 weeks
D. 34 weeks

Answer 1

Nipple feeding is generally successful when an infant reaches 34 weeks of gestational age due to better maturity of sucking, swallowing, and breathing coordination.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nipple feeding is likely to be successful once an infant reaches a gestational age of 34 weeks. Infants born prematurely, particularly before 28 weeks, often require medical intervention such as supplemental oxygen or CPAP to assist with breathing due to underdeveloped lungs and insufficient surfactant production. By 32 weeks, fetal development includes increased chances for successful breathing, but the ability to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing—which is essential for nipple feeding—typically matures closer to 34 weeks. Therefore, the correct answer is D. 34 weeks.