A nurse is assessing a newborn who was born 2 hr ago and was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit with chest wall retractions and blue discoloration of the hands and feet. Which of the following findings indicates a decline in the newborn's status?
Apneic episode less than 15 seconds
Fine crackles
Oxygen saturation of 89%
Nasal flaring
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. An apneic episode less than 15 seconds may be considered within normal limits for a newborn and does not necessarily indicate a decline in status.
B. Fine crackles may indicate fluid in the lungs but are not specific to a decline in the newborn's status.
C. An oxygen saturation of 89% indicates hypoxemia, which is a significant concern and suggests respiratory compromise. It indicates a decline in the newborn's status and requires immediate intervention to improve oxygenation.
D. Nasal flaring is a sign of respiratory distress but may not be as concerning as a low oxygen saturation level in this context. It indicates increased work of breathing but does not provide direct information about oxygenation status.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Back pain following intercourse at 36 weeks of gestation may be common and is not typically indicative of an urgent issue.
B. Severe vomiting in early pregnancy could indicate hyperemesis gravidarum, which may require immediate assessment and intervention to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
C. Frequent urination at 10 weeks of gestation is common due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus, but it does not typically require immediate assessment unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
D. Periodic tingling of the fingers at 24 weeks of gestation could be due to carpal tunnel syndrome, which is common in pregnancy but does not usually require urgent assessment unless severe or accompanied by other symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Polycythemia: Polycythemia, an elevated red blood cell count, is not typically associated with forceps-assisted birth.
B. Facial palsy:
Correct answer. Facial palsy, or weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, can occur as a complication of forceps-assisted birth due to pressure or trauma to the facial nerve during delivery.
C. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a lung condition primarily affecting premature infants and is not directly related to the method of delivery.
D. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia, low blood sugar levels, can occur in newborns for various reasons but is not specifically associated with forceps-assisted birth unless there are other complicating factors.
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