A nurse is assessing a newborn 1 hour after birth.
The nurse recognizes that which of the following respiratory rates is within the expected reference range for a newborn?

Choice B rationale

When a couple is found to be carriers of an autosomal-recessive disorder, one of the actions the nurse can take is to discuss options with the couple, including amniocentesis to determine if their fetus is affected. This procedure can provide definitive information about the genetic status of the fetus, allowing the couple to make informed decisions about the pregnancy.

Choice A rationale

The client who has an indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage is not at risk for hypokalemia. The kidneys regulate the balance of potassium by removing excess potassium into the urine. The use of a urinary catheter would not affect this process.

Choice B rationale

The client who has a chest tube to water seal is not at risk for hypokalemia. Chest tubes are used to treat conditions that can cause the lung to collapse, such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion. They do not affect the body’s potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

The client who has a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction is at risk for hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can occur with loss of gastric fluids because these fluids contain potassium. With an NG tube to suction, these fluids are being removed from the body, which can lead to a decrease in potassium levels.

Choice D rationale

The client who has a tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen is not at risk for hypokalemia. A tracheostomy tube allows air to enter the lungs. It does not affect the body’s potassium levels.