A neonatologist prescribes gentamicin for a 2-day-old, septic preterm infant who weighs 2800 grams.

The dosage of gentamicin for babies under 1 week of age is 2.5 mg/kg every 24 hours.

The nurse calculates the safe daily dosage of this medication as?

Choice A rationale

Administering oxytocin is not appropriate at this stage since the fetal head at a +5 station indicates imminent delivery.

Choice B rationale

Applying fundal pressure is not recommended and can cause complications such as uterine rupture or maternal injury.

Choice C rationale

Suctioning the mouth of the infant at the perineum should be done only after the head is delivered to clear airway obstructions.

Choice D rationale

Observing for the presence of a nuchal cord is crucial as it can cause complications during delivery, requiring immediate attention.

Choice A rationale

Allowing the client to ambulate in the hallway to initiate labor is not the first appropriate action because it does not address the immediate need to monitor the client's temperature. Ambulation can be considered after ensuring there are no signs of infection or other complications.

Choice B rationale

Encouraging oral fluids and administering an antipyretic medication is not the initial priority. While hydration is important, the primary focus should be on monitoring for signs of infection, which can be indicated by changes in temperature.

Choice C rationale

Administering glucocorticoids intramuscularly is typically for promoting fetal lung maturity in cases of preterm labor, not for term pregnancies at 38 weeks. It does not address the immediate need to monitor maternal temperature after membrane rupture.

Choice D rationale

Checking the client's temperature every 2 hours is crucial to monitor for signs of infection, such as chorioamnionitis, which can occur after membrane rupture. Early detection of fever can prevent complications for both mother and baby.