A 42-week gestation baby has been admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. At delivery, thick green amniotic fluid was noted. Which of the following actions by the nurse is most critical at this time?
Ophthalmic assessment to check for conjunctival irritation.
Rectal temperature to assess for septic hyperthermia.
Bath to remove meconium-stained fluid from the skin.
Respiratory evaluation to monitor for respiratory distress.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While conjunctival irritation could occur from exposure to irritants, it is not a primary concern in this case. Respiratory complications take precedence due to the risk of aspiration from meconium-stained fluid.
Choice B rationale
Rectal temperature assessment for hyperthermia is important but not critical in the immediate scenario. Respiratory distress monitoring is more urgent due to the association with meconium aspiration syndrome.
Choice C rationale
Bathing to remove meconium-stained fluid minimizes infection risk. However, respiratory assessment is more critical due to the severe pulmonary complications associated with meconium aspiration.
Choice D rationale
Meconium-stained amniotic fluid increases the risk of aspiration, leading to respiratory distress. Early respiratory evaluation prevents hypoxia, pulmonary hypertension, or pneumonitis, which are serious complications in neonates.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Projectile vomiting is not a typical symptom of diaphragmatic hernia. This condition primarily affects respiratory function due to lung compression by abdominal organs in the chest cavity.
Choice B rationale
High-pitched crying is not a hallmark symptom of diaphragmatic hernia. The condition primarily presents with respiratory distress due to lung underdevelopment and organ displacement.
Choice C rationale
Respiratory distress occurs due to lung compression and underdevelopment caused by abdominal organs herniating into the chest cavity. This is a primary symptom observed in diaphragmatic hernia cases.
Choice D rationale
Fecal incontinence is unrelated to diaphragmatic hernia. The condition primarily impacts respiratory function due to the displacement of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Maternal mortality in the United States is among the highest in industrialized nations, with rates significantly exceeding those of comparable countries due to systemic healthcare disparities and limited access to care.
Choice B rationale
The United States has a maternal mortality rate of approximately 18.6 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is higher than other industrialized nations, where rates are often below 10 deaths per 100,000 live births.
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