Maternity Nursing Q 30
A client tells the nurse, “I think my baby likes to hear me talk to him.” When discussing neonates and stimulation with sound, which of the following would the nurse include as a means to elicit the best response?
A. High-pitched speech with tonal variations.
B. Low-pitched speech with a sameness of tone.
C. Cooing sounds rather than words.
D. Repeated stimulation with loud sounds.
Correct Answer: A. High-pitched speech with tonal variations
Providing stimulation and speaking to neonates is important. Some authorities believe that speech is the most important type of sensory stimulation for a neonate. Neonates respond best to speech with tonal variations and a high-pitched voice. A neonate can hear all sound louder than about 55 decibels.
Option B: Low pitched speech is less effective for neonates because they can hear all sounds louder than about 55 decibels.
Option C: At about two months, the infant may start cooing and repeating vowel sounds. Imitate his cooing while also adding simple words and phrases over the first four to six months.
Option D: A baby’s hearing is very sensitive and can be easily damaged by loud sounds. It is recommended to keep sounds around the infant quieter than 60 decibels.