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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Postpartum depression with psychotic features may lead to suicidal ideation or infanticidal tendencies due to delusions or hallucinations. Ensuring safety is critical to prevent harm to both mother and infant.
Choice B rationale
Anger outbursts, though concerning, do not pose immediate threats like harm to self or infant. Addressing this behavior is secondary to prioritizing safety in severe postpartum psychosis cases.
Choice C rationale
Neglecting hygiene reflects depressive symptoms but does not indicate psychosis severity or imminent danger. Primary focus remains on managing safety risks to the mother and infant.
Choice D rationale
Losing trust in her husband is relevant to interpersonal stress but does not constitute a primary care concern. The immediate threat of harm takes precedence over marital dynamics.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Visual impairment, including retinopathy of prematurity, results from immature retinal vascularization and oxidative damage caused by prolonged oxygen therapy in premature infants, leading to neovascularization and potential retinal detachment.
Choice B rationale
Sensitivity to touch reflects neurologic immaturity or overstimulation in premature infants but is not directly associated with oxygen therapy. It stems from underdeveloped sensory pathways and an immature central nervous system.
Choice C rationale
Hyperbilirubinemia arises from excessive bilirubin production or impaired hepatic clearance in neonates, unrelated to oxygen therapy. Factors include hemolysis, immature liver enzyme systems, or delayed feeding initiation.
Choice D rationale
Cerebral palsy, a motor disorder due to non-progressive brain injury, can result from perinatal asphyxia or intracranial hemorrhage, but it is not a direct outcome of oxygen therapy in premature infants.
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