A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is in labor. The doctor documents the vaginal examination as 3 cm, 30%, and -1. The nurse evaluates this documentation to mean which of the following?

Choice A rationale:
0.25 mL - The nurse should not administer 0.25 mL because the available concentration of vitamin K injection is 1 mg/0.5 mL. To achieve the prescribed dose of 1 mg, administering only 0.25 mL would be insufficient.
Choice B rationale:
0.5 mL - This is the correct choice. The nurse should administer 0.5 mL of the vitamin K injection to deliver 1 mg of vitamin K, as the concentration of the injection is 1 mg/0.5 mL. By giving the full 0.5 mL, the newborn will receive the appropriate 1 mg dose.
Choice C rationale:
0.75 mL - Administering 0.75 mL would be excessive for the prescribed 1 mg dose of vitamin K. It is unnecessary to give a higher volume than required, as it could lead to potential adverse effects or wastage.
Choice D rationale:
1 mL - Similarly, administering the entire 1 mL of the vitamin K injection would result in doubling the prescribed dose, leading to potential overdose and adverse reactions. The nurse should avoid administering more than the necessary 0.5 mL.

The correct answer is choice c. Dry the newborn.

Choice A rationale:

Confirming identification and applying a bracelet is important for ensuring the newborn’s identity and preventing mix-ups, but it is not the immediate priority right after birth.

Choice B rationale:

Examining the newborn for birth defects is crucial for identifying any immediate health concerns, but it should be done after initial stabilization measures like drying and warming the newborn.

Choice C rationale:

Drying the newborn is the first action the nurse should take immediately after delivery. This helps to prevent heat loss and maintain the newborn’s body temperature, which is critical for their survival and well-being.

Choice D rationale:

Conducting a gestational age assessment is important for determining the newborn’s maturity and potential health risks, but it is not the immediate priority right after birth.