How should the nurse approach teaching a parent about managing an infant's feeding needs post-congestive heart failure diagnosis?

The correct approach for teaching a parent about managing an infant's feeding needs after a diagnosis of congestive heart failure focuses on frequent small feedings with less exertion. This strategy is essential because infants with congestive heart failure often experience fatigue and have a decreased ability to feed effectively during longer sessions.

By encouraging shorter, more frequent feedings, the infant can better manage their energy levels, which reduces the risk of becoming overwhelmed or exhausted during feeding times. This method allows parents to provide adequate caloric intake without overtaxing the infant's respiratory and cardiac systems. It also promotes better digestion and minimizes the risk of aspiration, which can be a concern for infants with heart conditions.

In contrast to this recommended approach, long feeding sessions may lead to increased fatigue and could provoke respiratory distress during or after feeding. Strictly enforcing a breastmilk-only diet may not meet the caloric needs of an infant with congestive heart failure if indicated supplements or formula are beneficial for achieving adequate nutrition. Additionally, an immediate switch to a formula-only diet without considering the infant's current feeding routine and tolerance could be disruptive and not tailored to their needs. Thus, the strategy of frequent small feedings strikes a balance that supports the infant's health and feeding stability.