HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

What is the best advice for a mother wanting to switch her 9-month-old infant from iron fortified formula to whole milk?

1. Change the baby to whole milk

2. Add chocolate syrup to the bottle

3. Continue with the present formula

4. Offer fruit juice frequently

The correct answer is: Continue with the present formula

The best recommendation for a mother considering switching her 9-month-old infant from iron-fortified formula to whole milk is to continue with the current formula. This is because infants require adequate nutrition for growth and development during their first year of life, and iron-fortified formula provides important nutrients, including iron, which is crucial for preventing anemia. Whole milk, while a source of fat and calories, lacks sufficient iron content and can potentially lead to deficiencies if introduced too early. Additionally, introducing whole milk before the child is at least one year old can also increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and conditions like milk allergy or intolerance. The recommendation is for infants to continue receiving iron-fortified formula or breast milk until they reach the age of one year, at which point whole milk can be gradually introduced. This approach ensures that the infant is receiving a balanced diet while supporting their growth needs.