A nurse is assisting with the care of a newborn 1 hr after birth.

Select the 5 findings that the nurse should report to the provider.

A. Discard unused formula in used bottle after 2 hours:Once a baby has started drinking from a bottle, bacteria from the baby’s mouth can contaminate the formula. Any leftover formula should be discarded after 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth and reduce the risk of infection.

B. Never prop a bottle:Propping a bottle can lead to choking, ear infections, and dental issues (such as baby bottle tooth decay). Babies should always be held upright during feedings.

C. Formula is available in three forms:Infant formula is available in three types:Ready-to-feed (no mixing needed),Liquid concentrate (mix with water),Powdered formula (mix with water).

E. Store prepared bottles in the refrigerator:If formula is prepared in advance, it must be stored in the refrigerator (≤ 4°C or 40°F) and used within 24 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Incorrect Answer:

D. Warm the bottle in the microwave:Microwaving heats unevenly, creating hot spots that can burn the baby’s mouth. Instead, warm bottles by placing them in warm water for a few minutes and always test the temperature on the wrist before feeding.

Choice A reason
Blood pressure is not a priority finding for a newborn with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Blood pressure is usually normal or slightly elevated in NAS, and it is not a reliable indicator of the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Choice B reason
Gastrointestinal disturbances are a common and serious finding for a newborn with NAS. Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and poor weight gain. Projectile vomiting can also increase the risk of aspiration. This finding requires immediate follow-up and intervention.
Choice C reason
Skin color is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Acrocyanosis (bluish color of the hands and feet) is a normal finding in newborns and does not indicate hypoxia or poor circulation. It usually resolves within the first few days of life.
Choice D reason
NAS score is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. NAS score is a tool used to assess the severity of withdrawal symptoms and the need for pharmacological treatment. It is based on a set of clinical signs and symptoms that are scored at regular intervals. However, it is not a substitute for clinical judgment and individualized care. The NAS score alone does not determine the urgency of follow-up.
Choice E reason
Temperature is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Temperature may be slightly elevated or normal in NAS, and it is not a specific sign of infection or withdrawal. Temperature regulation is important for newborns, but it is not an immediate concern in this case.
Choice F reason
Oxygen saturation is a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Tachypnea (rapid breathing) and retractions (inward movement of the chest wall) are signs of respiratory distress, which can compromise oxygen delivery to the tissues and organs. Hypoxia (low oxygen level) can cause brain damage, organ failure, and death if not corrected promptly. This finding requires immediate follow-up and intervention.
Choice G reason
Central nervous system disturbances are a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Increased muscle tone, tremors, high-pitched cry, and seizures are signs of neurological dysfunction,which can indicate brain injury, bleeding, or infection. Seizures can also worsen hypoxia and metabolic acidosis. This finding requires immediate follow-up and intervention.
Choice H reason
Respiratory rate is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Respiratory rate may be increased or normal in NAS, and it is not a specific sign of respiratory distress or infection. Respiratory rate should be monitored along with other vital signs.