What statement by a mother of an infant with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) indicates a need for further instruction?

The statement indicating a need for further instruction is the one about not giving the baby a pacifier. While some parents may choose not to use a pacifier for various reasons, there is no specific contraindication for pacifier use in infants with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In fact, pacifiers can be beneficial as they may help soothe infants and can potentially aid in the prevention of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Parent education about GERD management typically supports methods that help reduce reflux episodes, which include the other statements. For instance, small, frequent feedings can minimize the volume of food in the stomach at any one time, thereby reducing the likelihood of reflux. Keeping the baby in a head-elevated position after feedings can also help gravity keep the contents of the stomach in place. Thickened feedings are a common recommendation for some infants with GERD, as they may reduce the frequency and severity of reflux episodes.

Therefore, the remark about not providing a pacifier reflects a misunderstanding of supportive strategies that could be employed in managing an infant's GERD symptoms.