Case Study: Baby Boy "Leo"
Patient Profile:
Age: 3 days old
Birth Weight: 3,400g (7 lbs 8 oz)
Current Weight: 3,120g (6 lbs 14 oz)
Feeding Method: Exclusively breastfeeding
Assessment: Mother reports Leo is "sleepy" and she is worried he isn't getting enough
milk. He has had 2 wet diapers and 1 dark brown stool in the last 24 hours. His skin
appears slightly yellow on the face and chest.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. Weight Loss Calculation: Calculate the percentage of weight loss for Baby Leo. Is this
within the expected range for a 3-day-old newborn?
2. Feeding Adequacy: Based on the number of wet and dirty diapers, does Leo’s intake
appear adequate? How many wet/dirty diapers should a 3-day-old ideally have?
3. Physical Assessment: What is the most likely cause of the yellowing of the skin, and
how does breastfeeding frequency impact this condition?
4. Education: The mother asks if she should give Leo a bottle of water between feedings
because it is warm in the house. How should the nurse respond?
