CLC - Certified Lactation Counselor Supporting the Breastfeeding Dyad Questions and Answers

Question 1

A new mother reports that her 5-day-old, exclusively breastfed infant has had only one wet diaper and two small, dark stools in the last 24 hours.
The infant is sleepy and has not initiated feeding cues.
Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial action for the Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC)?

Accepted Answer

Perform a full feeding assessment, observing the latch and checking for signs of milk transfer.

Answer

Advise the mother to begin supplementing with 1-2 ounces of infant formula after each breastfeeding attempt.

Answer

Recommend the mother express milk and feed it to the infant with a spoon or cup.

Answer

Reassure the mother that this is normal newborn behavior and to continue offering the breast frequently.

Question 2

Which of the following is a reliable indicator of adequate milk transfer and sufficient intake in a one-week-old breastfed infant?

Accepted Answer

The infant has at least six to eight wet diapers in 24 hours.

Answer

The mother's breasts feel soft after feedings.

Answer

The infant sleeps for a four-hour stretch at night.

Answer

The mother can express a large volume of milk after a feeding.

Question 3

A mother is concerned because her three-week-old infant, who was previously content, is now nursing very frequently and seems fussy. The mother worries her milk supply is decreasing. What is the MOST likely explanation for this behavior?

Accepted Answer

The infant is experiencing a growth spurt and is increasing the milk supply.

Answer

The mother's diet has changed, affecting the taste of her milk.

Answer

The mother has an overactive let-down reflex, causing the infant to fuss.

Answer

The infant has developed a preference for bottle-feeding.

Question 4

During a consultation, a CLC observes a mother holding her baby in a cross-cradle position. The baby's mouth is open wide, lips are flanged out, and more of the areola is visible above the baby's top lip than below. The mother reports a pinching pain throughout the feeding. What should the CLC address first?

Accepted Answer

The asymmetrical latch, as the baby's chin should be pressed into the breast for a deeper latch.

Answer

Suggesting a different feeding position, like the football hold.

Answer

The mother's pain tolerance and offering reassurance.

Answer

The possibility of an underlying medical issue like thrush.

Question 5

A mother calls a CLC stating her two-day-old infant is crying frequently and she is worried she doesn't have enough milk. Which statement by the CLC is the most appropriate counseling response?

Accepted Answer

"Let's talk about what's happening. Crying is a late hunger cue. What other signs have you noticed?"

Answer

"You should give the baby some formula, it sounds like he is starving."

Answer

"Don't worry, all babies cry. Your milk will come in soon enough."

Answer

"You probably need to pump after every feeding to increase your supply."

Question 6

Within the CLC scope of practice, which of the following actions is appropriate when supporting a breastfeeding dyad?

Accepted Answer

Developing an individualized, evidence-based feeding plan with the mother.

Answer

Diagnosing the infant with ankyloglossia (tongue-tie).

Answer

Prescribing a galactagogue to increase milk supply.

Answer

Performing a frenotomy to correct a tongue-tie.