A 1-week-old neonate is admitted to the ED with a temperature of 39.7°C (103.5°F) axillary, HR 182, RR 76, BP 82/44, O2 saturation 96%. What are your immediate nursing priorities?
Recheck blood pressure and provide oxygen.
Administer aspirin and normal saline bolus.
Administer antibiotics and oxygen.
Obtain blood cultures, provide IV fluids and antibiotics.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as rechecking blood pressure and providing oxygen are not the immediate nursing priorities for a neonate with fever and signs of sepsis. Blood pressure is not a reliable indicator of perfusion in neonates, and oxygen saturation is already within normal range. The nurse should focus on identifying and treating the source of infection, preventing hypovolemia and shock, and monitoring the vital signs and blood glucose levels.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as administering aspirin and normal saline bolus are not the immediate nursing priorities for a neonate with fever and signs of sepsis. Aspirin is contraindicated in children under 18 years of age due to the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but serious condition that affects the liver and brain. Normal saline bolus may be indicated for hypotension or shock, but only after obtaining blood cultures and starting antibiotics.
Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as administering antibiotics and oxygen are not the immediate nursing priorities for a neonate with fever and signs of sepsis. Antibiotics are essential for treating the infection, but they should be given after obtaining blood cultures to avoid false-negative results. Oxygen may be needed if the neonate develops hypoxia or respiratory distress, but it is not the first intervention for a neonate with normal oxygen saturation.
Choice D reason: This statement is correct, as obtaining blood cultures, providing IV fluids and antibiotics are the immediate nursing priorities for a neonate with fever and signs of sepsis. Blood cultures are necessary to identify the causative organism and guide the antibiotic therapy. IV fluids are needed to maintain hydration, perfusion, and electrolyte balance. Antibiotics are needed to eradicate the infection and prevent septic shock and organ failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the symptoms described by the mother are not typical of a formula allergy. A formula allergy would cause symptoms such as rash, hives, wheezing, or vomiting within minutes or hours of feeding. Switching to a soy based formula is not recommended without consulting a doctor, as some infants may also be allergic to soy.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because feeding the infant after vomiting and diarrhea may worsen the condition and cause more dehydration. The infant should be given small amounts of oral rehydration solution (ORS) or breastmilk to prevent fluid loss. If the infant cannot tolerate oral fluids or shows signs of severe dehydration, such as sunken eyes, dry mouth, or lethargy, they should be taken to the emergency department for intravenous rehydration.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because blood and mucous in the stool are not normal findings in infants and should be investigated promptly. They may indicate a serious condition such as intussusception, which is a telescoping of the bowel that causes obstruction and inflammation. The stool may look like currant jelly due to the presence of blood and mucous. Intussusception is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Choice D reason: This is correct because the infant's symptoms may indicate a serious condition such as intussusception, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. The infant should be taken to the emergency room for further evaluation and management. The nurse should also advise the mother to monitor the infant's vital signs, hydration status, and urine output until they reach the hospital.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: An axillary temperature of 37.3° C is within the normal range for a 10 month old child and does not indicate a complication of intussusception or its treatment.
Choice B reason: Mild abdominal pain is expected after an emergency reduction for intussusception and can be managed with analgesics and comfort measures.
Choice C reason: A BP of 100/54 is normal for a 10 month old child and does not reflect hypovolemia or shock, which are possible complications of intussusception.
Choice D reason: Currant jelly stools are a sign of intestinal bleeding and ischemia, which are serious complications of intussusception that require immediate medical attention. Currant jelly stools are red, mucus-like, and mixed with blood. They indicate that the intussusception has not been resolved or has recurred.
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