IBCLC - Certification Equipment and Technology Flashcards

What is the recommended suction level when using an electric breast pump?

Answer: The highest comfortable setting that still maintains effective milk flow

The optimal pump suction is the highest comfortable vacuum — increasing suction beyond the comfort threshold reduces milk output and can cause nipple trauma.

A weighted feed (test weight) is performed using which type of scale?

Answer: Infant scale accurate to at least 2 grams

Test weighing requires a scale accurate to 2 grams or less because small changes in infant weight representing milk intake must be precisely measured.

Which feeding device most closely mimics breastfeeding pace to prevent flow preference in bottle-fed infants?

Answer: Slow-flow bottle nipple with paced bottle feeding technique

Paced bottle feeding with a slow-flow nipple mimics the intermittent flow of breastfeeding and allows the infant to control the pace, reducing flow preference risk.

Cup feeding is most appropriate for which infant population?

Answer: Preterm or sick infants who cannot yet coordinate suck-swallow-breathe at breast

Cup feeding is recommended for preterm or fragile infants who cannot yet effectively breastfeed, as it avoids nipple introduction while providing oral stimulation.

What is the primary risk associated with prolonged or incorrect use of a nipple shield?

Answer: Reduced milk transfer leading to decreased supply and inadequate infant intake

Nipple shields can reduce milk transfer efficiency and breast stimulation, potentially leading to decreased milk supply and inadequate infant growth if not carefully monitored.

When recommending a breast pump to a mother returning to work, which factor is most clinically important?

Answer: The pump's ability to maintain milk supply with double-pumping sessions

Double-pumping efficiency and the ability to maintain milk supply are the primary clinical considerations for a working mother who will rely on pumping regularly.