Question

A new mother asks the nurse why her baby seems to have a bowel movement after every feeding. When preparing a response to explain why this is an expected occurrence the nurse determines that it indicates an adequate:

1. Fluid intake

2. Cardiac sphincter

3. Pancreatic amylase level

4. Gastrocolic reflex response (Nugent 328)
Nugent, Patricia M. Mosby's Review Questions for the NCLEX-RN® Examination, 7th Edition. Mosby, 2011. VitalBook file.

Answer 1

The frequent bowel movements in newborns post-feeding are due to an adequate gastrocolic reflex response. This reflex is a normal response to feeding that triggers peristalsis, facilitating intestinal clearance for the next intake of food.

Step-by-step explanation:

The newborn's frequent bowel movements after feeding can be attributed to an adequate gastrocolic reflex response. This reflex is a normal physiological reaction where eating stimulates movement in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a bowel movement. The gastrocolic reflex is moderated by the nervous system, which when activated by food intake, initiates peristalsis, promoting the clearance of space in the intestines for the newly ingested food. This reflex also plays a role in the processing of previous meals as it helps ensure that the stomach and small intestine are emptied, potentially within 3 to 5 hours, in anticipation of the next meal.