Final answer:
The nurse practitioner would likely advise increasing breastfeeding frequency to address concerns about breast milk drying up, as more frequent suckling can stimulate greater milk production.
Step-by-step explanation:
A mother of a 2-month-old infant who is concerned about her breast milk drying up can be advised by the nurse practitioner to consider increasing breastfeeding frequency. This advice is based on the understanding that breastfeeding works on a supply-and-demand basis. When the infant sucks more at the breast, it stimulates the production of oxytocin, which, in turn, encourages the milk ejection reflex and enhances milk production. Additionally, the composition of breast milk changes during a feeding, beginning with the thirst-quenching foremilk and ending with the richer, more satisfying hindmilk. Based on this, supplementing with formula (option a) or switching to exclusive formula feeding (option c) might not be recommended as initial steps because they could reduce breastfeeding frequency and therefore potentially decrease milk supply. Starting the baby on solid foods (option d) is not advisable at 2 months of age as the recommended age for introducing solids is around 4-6 months.
If the concern over milk supply persists, it is important for the mother to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice, as there might be other factors involved that need to be addressed.