A charge nurse is discussing risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following conditions should the nurse include as a risk factor?

(a) "You will not be able to eat or drink anything for 8 hours prior to the test."
There are no fasting requirements for a nonstress test. The client can eat and drink normally before the test. Nonstress tests do not require the same preparation as some other medical tests, such as fasting or dietary restrictions.

(b) "You will be required to lie flat on your back for the duration of the test."
Lying flat on the back can cause supine hypotension syndrome in pregnant women, which can lead to decreased blood flow to the fetus. Instead, clients are typically positioned in a semi-Fowler's or lateral position to avoid this issue.

(c) "You will receive medication through an IV line to stimulate contractions."
This describes a contraction stress test, not a nonstress test. A nonstress test involves monitoring the fetal heart rate in response to natural fetal movements without inducing contractions through medication.

(d) "You will press the provided button when you feel the baby moving during the test."
During a nonstress test, the client is instructed to press a button whenever they feel fetal movement. This helps the healthcare provider correlate fetal movements with changes in the fetal heart rate, which can indicate fetal well-being.

Answer: B. Determine the newborn's respiratory rate.

Rationale:

A. Weigh the newborn's wet diaper:
While monitoring fluid output is important in assessing hydration status and overall health, it is not the immediate priority. In the context of a newborn with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), the respiratory status takes precedence, especially given that withdrawal can affect respiratory function.

B. Determine the newborn's respiratory rate:
Assessing the respiratory rate is crucial, as newborns with NAS may experience respiratory distress, including increased respiratory effort or apnea. Identifying any respiratory issues early allows for prompt intervention, which is vital for the newborn's safety and well-being. Ensuring adequate respiratory function is a priority in this population.

C. Auscultate the newborn's bowel sounds:
While assessing bowel sounds is relevant to monitoring gastrointestinal function and potential withdrawal symptoms, it is not the immediate priority. Changes in bowel sounds may occur due to the syndrome, but respiratory assessment should come first to ensure stability.

D. Swaddle the newborn in blankets:
Swaddling can provide comfort to a newborn with NAS; however, it is not the first action to take. Comfort measures are important, but they should follow critical assessments of the newborn's respiratory and overall clinical status to ensure safety.