What is the first action the nurse should take when initiating feeding with the Haberman nipple?

• A. Administer formula before feeding.
• B. Sterilize the nipple in boiling water before each use.
• C. Delay feeding until the infant is crying.
• D. Utilize Standard Precautions during the procedure.

Answer: (D)

Starting feeding with a Haberman nipple requires establishing infection control first. Standard Precautions provide the baseline safety for any procedure involving a neonate, who is especially vulnerable to infection. The very first step is to perform hand hygiene and ensure clean handling of all feeding equipment and the infant’s mouth and lips. This foundation of asepsis protects against transmitting any pathogens during the feeding process and sets the stage for all subsequent steps, such as preparing formula or warming milk according to policy.

Other actions don’t address this essential safety priority. Administering formula before ensuring clean technique risks introducing contaminants. Sterilizing the nipple before each use is important for cleanliness but is part of maintaining asepsis rather than the initial action itself. Delaying feeding until the infant cries ignores hunger cues and appropriate feeding readiness.