A nurse is providing education to parents living in homes built in the 1950s. To reduce the risk of lead poisoning in infant formula preparation, which of the following should the nurse suggest to the parents?

Explanation

• Contaminated water is a major cause of lead poisoning in infants living in houses built prior to 1978 (due to lead pipes).

• Letting tap water run for at least 3 minutes will flush the pipes and reduce the risk of lead poisoning. Once you have done this, fill a container to store in the refrigerator and use it throughout the day.

• Use only cold water from the tap. Hot water from the tap is likely to contain higher levels of lead because it comes through the house's plumbing instead of directly from the local water supply.

• The use of bottled water is not necessary.

• Boiling water will not reduce lead content.

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