I have a case that has stretched my brain and I need some further ideas.

mom G1 P1 c/s for cpd after 36 hours of pitocin induction with 2 1/2 hours
pushing (with baby at 0 station).  Stadol x 2, intrathecal x 2.  Baby is now
19 days old and still chomping - mom grimaces and cries with some of the
feedings.  Some feedings okay - although no apparent rhyme or reason.  Her
nipples are fine (cleared up a minor case of sore nipples).  Baby appears
latched on well but no tongue to be seen.  Great wt gain (after 10% loss)
and frequent swallowing can be heard.  Mom says she feels him "flick" her
nipples with his tongue while sucking.  Had one bottle immediately after c/s
due to mom's bad recovery.  Now occasionally cup feeding for relief with
EBM.  When baby sucks on finger you can feel him bunch tongue up.

I have been holding out hope that it was just a matter of the narcotics
wearing off but that usually happens between 2 - 3 weeks.  Mom is getting
towards the end of her rope (has been amazing in her persistance) and is
considering pumping and feeding.  She feels the baby is being rewarded for
chomping behavior because he gets plenty of milk.

I briefly considered the allergy aspect but baby has pretty much been doing
it all along.  (how long does it take an allergy to show up?)

                        Debbie Codding
                        RN, BSN