Which of the following is NOT a sign of correct Latch-on during breastfeeding?

Appeared in: NIA - 29 January 2023

Explanation

This option describes a sign of a poor or shallow latch, making it the correct answer for a question that asks what is NOT a sign of a correct latch.
In a correct latch, the baby's mouth covers most of the areola, especially the lower portion, to effectively compress the milk sinuses.
When the majority of the areola is visible, the baby is likely only sucking on the nipple, which leads to inefficient milk transfer and can cause significant pain and trauma to the mother's nipple.

Option A: A wide-open mouth is a classic sign of a correct and effective latch. It allows the baby to take in a large amount of breast tissue, not just the nipple.
Option B: The lower lip being turned outwards, or 'flanged', is a key indicator of a good latch. This position helps draw the nipple and areola deeply into the baby's mouth.
Option C: The baby's chin touching the breast is a sign of good positioning and a deep latch. It ensures the baby is held closely and the airway is clear.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Assessment of correct breastfeeding latch-on technique as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's ability to assess latch-on is fundamental to supporting breastfeeding dyads. A poor latch is a primary cause of nipple pain, damage, and early cessation of breastfeeding.
Correcting a poor latch promptly prevents complications for the mother (e.g., mastitis, engorgement) and ensures the infant receives adequate nutrition for proper growth and development.
What if? - If a mother reports severe, sharp nipple pain despite a visually correct latch, the nurse should assess for other issues. This could indicate a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) in the infant or a yeast infection (Candida) on the nipple, both of which require specific interventions beyond simple repositioning.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the negative framing of the question with the keyword 'NOT'. This means you are looking for the option that is false or incorrect.
Recall the key signs of a correct breastfeeding latch. Think of the acronym LATCH (Latch, Audible swallowing, Type of nipple, Comfort, Hold).
Evaluate each option against the criteria for a good latch.
Option A ('Baby's mouth wide open') is a sign of a good latch.
Option B ('Lower lip turned outwards') is a sign of a good latch.
Option C ('Baby's chin touching breast') is a sign of a good latch.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 143-145

E6 Text Book Of Pediatric Nursing 3rd Panchali Pal — Part 1 (pp 36-238 of 713) p. 124-126

Practise the full NIA - 29 January 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.