The term initiation of early breast feeding means

NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Obstetrics and Midwifery Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Explanation

Early initiation of breastfeeding is defined as putting the newborn to the breast within the first hour of life.
This practice is a key recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO) and is part of the 'Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding' initiative.
The first hour is critical for the newborn to receive colostrum, the first milk, which is highly concentrated with antibodies and provides passive immunity.
Early suckling stimulates the mother's body to release oxytocin, which helps the uterus to contract and reduces the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
It also promotes mother-infant bonding through skin-to-skin contact.

Option A: Initiating breastfeeding within one minute is generally not feasible as essential immediate newborn assessments and care (e.g., clearing the airway, drying, Apgar scoring) must be performed first.
Option C: Waiting for two hours is a delay that misses the 'golden hour,' the critical window for the newborn to receive the maximum benefits of colostrum and for the mother's body to respond to suckling.
Option D: Delaying breastfeeding for a full day is a significant lapse in care. It deprives the infant of crucial early immunological protection from colostrum and increases the risk of neonatal complications like hypoglycemia and hypothermia.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and Importance of Early Initiation of Breastfeeding as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses are instrumental in implementing this practice by educating mothers prenatally and facilitating immediate skin-to-skin contact and the first breastfeeding session after delivery.
Early initiation of breastfeeding is a key indicator in public health programs like India's RMNCH+A strategy, as it is proven to reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity.
What if? If the mother delivered via cesarean section, early initiation is still recommended. As soon as the mother is stable, awake, and alert, she should be assisted with skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core of the question: it asks for the definition of 'early initiation of breastfeeding'.
This is a factual recall question based on international and national health guidelines.
Recall the concept of the 'golden hour' in obstetrics, which refers to the first hour after birth.
Evaluate the options against this standard timeframe. One minute is too soon and impractical. Two hours and one day are considered delayed.
Select the option that aligns with the WHO and standard pediatric recommendations, which is within one hour of delivery.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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