On the third day of life, the newborn weighs 6 lb 15 oz, down from birth weight 7 lb 8 oz. What is the appropriate nursing action?

• A. Document the weight loss in the EMR.
• B. Begin immediate formula supplementation.
• C. Notify the physician for alarm.
• D. Reweigh the infant before discharge.

Answer: (A)

Newborn weight loss in the first days is common and usually temporary. After birth, fluid shifts and adjustment to feeding can cause a decline before intake catches up. Typical loss is about 5–10% of birth weight during the first week, with many babies losing around 7–8% by day 3.

Here, birth weight was 7 lb 8 oz (120 oz) and day-3 weight is 6 lb 15 oz (111 oz). That’s a loss of 9 oz, about 7.5% of birth weight—well within the expected range. The best action is to document this weight change in the medical record and continue to monitor feeding and output. This approach supports normal physiological transition while keeping an eye on trends.

No immediate formula supplementation or physician alarm is needed unless weight loss approaches 10% or more, or there are signs of inadequate intake or dehydration. Reweighing before discharge can be appropriate as part of ongoing monitoring, but the key step here is documenting the expected weight loss and continuing routine assessment.