Weighing a newborn again before discharge serves to:

Weighing a newborn again before discharge serves to:

• A. It is to monitor feeding tolerance
• B. It is to compare with the birth weight for accuracy used on the newborns growth chart
• C. It is to measure hydration
• D. It is to evaluate gestational age

Answer: (B)

Tracking the newborn’s weight after birth is about watching the upward trajectory on the growth chart and making sure the baby is regaining birth weight as expected. A little weight loss right after birth is normal, but before discharge you want to confirm that the infant has regained an appropriate amount and is following the planned growth path. This assessment helps gauge feeding adequacy and hydration indirectly, because steady weight regain indicates the infant is likely feeding well and staying hydrated. If weight gain is slower than expected, it signals a potential issue with intake or fluid balance that may need attention before discharge. In contrast, gestational age isn’t determined from weight alone, and while hydration and feeding tolerance can influence weight, the primary purpose here is to verify the growth trend by comparing with birth weight on the growth chart.

Tracking the newborn’s weight after birth is about watching the upward trajectory on the growth chart and making sure the baby is regaining birth weight as expected. A little weight loss right after birth is normal, but before discharge you want to confirm that the infant has regained an appropriate amount and is following the planned growth path. This assessment helps gauge feeding adequacy and hydration indirectly, because steady weight regain indicates the infant is likely feeding well and staying hydrated. If weight gain is slower than expected, it signals a potential issue with intake or fluid balance that may need attention before discharge. In contrast, gestational age isn’t determined from weight alone, and while hydration and feeding tolerance can influence weight, the primary purpose here is to verify the growth trend by comparing with birth weight on the growth chart.