NCLEX-RNHealth Promotion and MaintenanceEasy
A nurse is conducting a well-child visit for a 6-month-old infant. The parents ask about introducing solid foods. Which food item should the nurse recommend introducing first?
- ACow's milk
- BSmall pieces of cooked chicken
- CMashed bananas
- DIron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk
Iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula is typically recommended as the first solid food due to its low allergenic potential and iron content, which is important as infant iron stores begin to deplete around this age.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Cow's milk is not recommended for infants under 12 months as a primary beverage due to its high protein and mineral content, which can be difficult for immature kidneys.
- B. Small pieces of cooked chicken are a choking hazard and too advanced for initial solid food introduction.
- C. Mashed bananas are a good later first food, but iron-fortified cereal is often preferred initially for its iron content.
First Solid Foods for Infants
The initial introduction of solid foods for infants, typically starting around 4-6 months of age, focusing on single-ingredient, easily digestible, and iron-fortified options.
- Start between 4-6 months of age.
- Iron-fortified cereals are often recommended first.
- Introduce one new food at a time, waiting 3-5 days to observe for allergies.
Memory trick: Cereal First, Then Fruits and Veggies, One at a Time.