A nurse is assisting in the care of a newborn immediately after birth. At 5 min after birth, the newborn has acrocyanosis, flexed extremities, a grimace when suctioned, a heart rate of 130/min, and a lusty cry with tactile stimulation. What should the nurse document as the newborn's 5-min Apgar score?

Choice A rationale:
Severe nausea and vomiting are not indicative of an ectopic pregnancy. While nausea and vomiting are common symptoms in early pregnancy, they are not specific to ectopic pregnancies. These symptoms are more likely associated with typical pregnancy changes.

Choice B rationale:
Pelvic pain is a crucial finding that the nurse should expect in a possible ectopic pregnancy. As the pregnancy implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube, it can cause sharp and severe pain in the pelvic region. This pain may be unilateral and can be accompanied by shoulder pain due to blood or fluid irritating the diaphragm.

Choice C rationale:
Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age is not likely in an ectopic pregnancy. In fact, uterine enlargement may not be noticeable at all in an ectopic pregnancy since the embryo is not developing in the uterus.

Choice D rationale:
Copious vaginal bleeding is more commonly associated with miscarriages or other complications in intrauterine pregnancies. In an ectopic pregnancy, vaginal bleeding may occur, but it is typically lighter and often described as spotting.

The correct answer is choice B: “You must be feeling very scared.” This response is an example of therapeutic communication, where the nurse acknowledges the client’s feelings and provides emotional support without making assumptions or giving false reassurances.

Choice A rationale: While it’s true that the presence of a neonatal unit equipped to handle emergencies is reassuring, this response does not address the client’s immediate emotional needs or fears. It’s important for the nurse to recognize and validate the client’s feelings rather than focusing solely on the facilities available.

Choice B rationale: This choice demonstrates empathy and understanding. It allows the client to express their feelings and concerns, which is a crucial aspect of providing emotional support during labor. By acknowledging the client’s potential fear, the nurse opens the door for further communication and support.

Choice C rationale: This response minimizes the client’s individual feelings by suggesting that everyone has the same worries. It can make the client feel that their concerns are not unique or taken seriously, which is not conducive to establishing trust or providing individualized care.

Choice D rationale: This choice provides false reassurance. At 32 weeks of gestation, while the prognosis for the baby is generally good, there are still risks associated with preterm birth. It’s important not to make definitive statements about outcomes that cannot be guaranteed.