A full-term baby, exclusively breast fed, at the end of 1 week was passing golden yellow stools and was found to have adequate hydration with the normal systemic examination. The weight of the baby was just the same as it was at birth. The paediatrician should now advise –
**Core Concept**
The concept being tested here is the normal bowel habits and nutritional requirements of a full-term breastfed baby in the first week of life, particularly the frequency and consistency of stools.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
A breastfed baby typically passes meconium (black, tar-like stools) in the first 24-48 hours of life, followed by transitional stools (greenish-black or brownish-green) in the first 3-5 days. By the end of the first week, the stools should be a darker yellow or brown color, indicating the introduction of bile from the liver. The baby's adequate hydration, normal systemic examination, and stable weight suggest that the baby is receiving sufficient milk and is not experiencing any significant gastrointestinal issues. The pediatrician should advise the mother to continue breastfeeding and not to worry about the baby's bowel habits.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it implies that the baby's bowel habits are abnormal, and the pediatrician should intervene with formula supplementation or other treatments. However, the baby's stool color and consistency are within normal limits for a breastfed baby at this age.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it suggests that the baby is not receiving enough milk, which is not supported by the baby's stable weight and adequate hydration.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it implies that the baby's bowel habits are a cause for concern, and the pediatrician should investigate further. However, the baby's stool color and consistency are within normal limits for a breastfed baby at this age.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A breastfed baby's stool color and consistency can vary significantly in the first week of life, but by the end of the first week, the stools should be a darker yellow or brown color, indicating the introduction of bile from the liver.
**Correct Answer: D. Continue breastfeeding as normal.**