FREE CLC Maternal & Infant Assessment Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the recommended timeframe for initiating the first breastfeeding session after birth?

Accepted Answer

Within 1 hour

Answer

Initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, often called the 'golden hour,' is widely recommended by health organizations. This early skin-to-skin contact and first feed help establish successful breastfeeding, promote maternal-infant bonding, and stimulate milk production. It also takes advantage of the infant's natural alert state immediately after birth.

Question 2

Which infant cue best indicates readiness to feed?

Accepted Answer

Rooting reflex

Answer

The rooting reflex is an involuntary movement where an infant turns their head towards anything that strokes their cheek or mouth, opening their mouth in search of a nipple. This is a clear hunger cue indicating the baby is ready to feed. Recognizing this early cue helps ensure timely and effective feeding, preventing the baby from becoming overly distressed.

Question 3

When assessing latch, which sign suggests an effective latch?

Accepted Answer

Infant’s lips flanged outward on the breast

Answer

An effective latch is characterized by the infant's lips being flanged outward, like a 'fish mouth,' encompassing a large portion of the areola. This position allows the baby to compress the milk ducts effectively and transfer milk efficiently. Other options like clicking sounds or a pinched nipple indicate a less effective or painful latch.

Question 4

During maternal assessment, which finding may indicate a delayed milk ejection reflex?

Accepted Answer

No noticeable breast change during feeding

Answer

A delayed milk ejection reflex (MER), or 'let-down,' means the milk is not flowing freely or quickly enough. If there's no noticeable breast change, such as tingling, fullness relief, or milk leaking from the opposite breast during feeding, it suggests the MER might be delayed or absent. This can lead to the baby not getting enough milk despite being at the breast.

Question 5

The average expected weight loss for healthy term infants in the first 3–5 days is:

Accepted Answer

5–7% of birth weight

Answer

Healthy term infants typically lose 5-7% of their birth weight in the first 3-5 days postpartum as they adjust to extrauterine life and establish feeding. This weight loss is considered normal and is usually regained by 10-14 days of age. Losing more than 10% or not starting to regain weight by day 5-7 warrants further assessment.

CLC - Certified Lactation Counselor Practice Test

CLC - Certified Lactation Counselor Practice Test

FREE CLC Maternal & Infant Assessment Questions and Answers