A nurse in planning care immediately following birth for a newborn who has a myelomeningocele that is leaking cerebrospinal fluid. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Monitor the rectal temperature every 4 hr.
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Prepare for surgical closure after 72 hr.
Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine
The Correct Answer is B
Correct Answer: B
B. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Newborns with a leaking myelomeningocele are at a high risk for infection, especially meningitis, due to the exposure of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics helps reduce the risk of infection until the defect is surgically closed.
Incorrect answers:
A. Monitor the rectal temperature every 4 hr. Taking rectal temperatures is contraindicated in a newborn with a myelomeningocele due to the risk of trauma to the rectum and potential introduction of bacteria near the exposed spinal cord and CSF. Axillary temperatures should be used instead.
C. Prepare for surgical closure after 72 hr. Surgical repair of a myelomeningocele is typically performed within the first 24–48 hours of life to reduce the risk of infection and prevent further nerve damage.
D. Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine. Povidone-iodine is not appropriate for cleansing the exposed myelomeningocele site because it can be too harsh and toxic to neural tissue.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Previous cervical cerclage
Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure in which a stitch is placed in the cervix to reinforce it and reduce the risk of preterm birth. The fact that the client has had a previous cervical cerclage suggests a history of cervical insufficiency or a shortened cervix, which increases the risk of preterm delivery in subsequent pregnancies.
B. Previous delivery at 37 weeks gestation: A delivery at 37 weeks gestation is considered term. While it is on the earlier side of term, it does not inherently indicate an increased risk for preterm delivery.
C. Previous delivery of a newborn weighing 2.5 kg (5.5 lb): While low birth weight can be associated with preterm birth, the weight alone does not necessarily indicate a history of preterm delivery. Birth weight can be influenced by various factors.
D. Previous reactive non-stress test: A reactive non-stress test is a reassuring result, indicating that the fetus is responsive and generally doing well. It does not suggest a history or risk of preterm delivery.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hot flashes: Hot flashes are not a typical adverse effect of terbutaline. Hot flashes are more commonly associated with hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menopause.
B. Heart palpitations: This is the correct answer. Terbutaline can stimulate beta-2 receptors in the heart, leading to increased heart rate and palpitations. Clients receiving terbutaline should be monitored for cardiac side effects.
C. Shortness of breath: While terbutaline is used to relax smooth muscles, it can also affect beta-2 receptors in the respiratory system. However, shortness of breath is not a common adverse effect and may indicate other respiratory issues.
D. Bradycardia: Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a typical adverse effect of terbutaline. The medication is more likely to increase heart rate due to its beta-2 adrenergic agonist properties.
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