36. A neonate is born at 39 weeks' gestation and is exclusively breastfed. Which finding by a nurse is considered "normal" in a neonate of this gestation during the first few days after birth?
36. A neonate is born at 39 weeks' gestation and is exclusively breastfed. Which finding by a nurse is considered "normal" in a neonate of this gestation during the first few days after birth?
. Birth weight of 4,000 to 4,500 grams.
. Weight gain of 5% to 10% from birth weight.
. Weight loss of 5% to 10% from birth weight.
. Birth weight of 2,000 to 2,500 grams.
Test-Taking Tip
Know the normal range of weight at birth for a full-term infant as well as the parameters for small and large for gestational age. Is it weight gain or weight loss? Breastfed neonates lose about 5% to 10% of their birth weight.
Content Area: Child Health, Newborn; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Health Promotion and Maintenance/Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
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Answer 1 is incorrect because birth weight of 4,000 to 4,500 grams is considered macrosomia and large for gestational age, not a normal finding in a 39-week-gestation neonate. Answer 2 is incorrect because weight gain of 5% to 10% in an infant who is exclusively breastfed is not a normal finding. Neonates usually lose 5% to 10% of their birth weight and regain it by 2 weeks after birth. Answer 3 is correct because weight loss of 5% to 10% from birth weight is normal for neonates the first few days after birth, not weight gain. Answer 4 is incorrect because birth weight of 2,000 to 2,500 grams is considered small for gestational age, not a normal finding in a 39-week-gestation neonate.