Failure to Thrive: NCLEX Priorities
FTT: organic vs non-organic causes, feeding history, social assessment.
Failure to thrive is poor growth in children. NCLEX tests assessment and intervention.
Definition
Weight <5th percentile or crossing two major percentile lines downward.
Causes
Organic: malabsorption, chronic disease, congenital. Non-organic: inadequate intake, feeding problems, neglect, poverty.
Assessment
Feeding history (volume, frequency, technique). Caloric calculation. Developmental milestones. Social assessment. Mom-baby interaction observation.
Management
Address cause. Calorie boosting (fortify formula, frequent feeds). WIC referral. Social work if non-organic. Sometimes hospital admission to observe feeding and weight gain.
Frequently asked
Hospitalization criteria?
Severe malnutrition, failed outpatient management, concern for neglect, comorbid medical condition.
Feeding observation, what to watch?
Latch/bottle position, volume taken, time per feed, parent-child interaction, infant cues.
Quick check
Loading a question…
How ready are you right now?
10 real NCLEX questions, free, in your browser. See how close you are to ready and which subjects are costing you.
Try 10 questions free