A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hr postpartum. The client is Rh-negative and her newborn is Rh-positive. The client asks why an indirect Coombs test was ordered by the provider. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
"It determines the presence of maternal antibodies in the newborn's blood."
"It determines if kernicterus will occur in the newborn."
"It detects Rh-positive antibodies in the mother's blood."
"It detects Rh-negative antibodies in the newborn's blood."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as it describes the direct Coombs test, not the indirect Coombs test. The direct Coombs test is performed on the newborn's blood, and it detects the presence of maternal antibodies that have attached to the newborn's red blood cells. The direct Coombs test can help diagnose hemolytic disease of the newborn, which is a condition where the maternal antibodies destroy the newborn's red blood cells, causing anemia and jaundice.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the purpose of the indirect Coombs test, but rather a possible complication of hemolytic disease of the newborn. Kernicterus is a severe form of jaundice that occurs when the bilirubin level in the blood is very high, and it can cause brain damage, deafness, or death. Kernicterus can be prevented by treating the jaundice with phototherapy or exchange transfusion.
Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as it describes the indirect Coombs test, which is performed on the mother's blood, and it detects the presence of Rh-positive antibodies that have formed in response to the exposure to the Rh-positive blood of the newborn. The indirect Coombs test can help identify the risk of hemolytic disease of the newborn, and guide the administration of Rh immunoglobulin, which is a medication that prevents the formation of Rh-positive antibodies.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not possible for the newborn to have Rh-negative antibodies, since the newborn has Rh-positive blood. Rh-negative antibodies are produced by Rh-negative individuals who have been exposed to Rh-positive blood, such as Rh-negative mothers who have Rh-positive newborns. Rh-negative antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the Rh-positive red blood cells of the newborn, causing hemolytic disease of the newborn.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Respiratory rate is the priority nursing assessment for this client, because magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression, which is a life-threatening complication. The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory rate closely, and discontinue the infusion if it falls below 12 breaths per minute.
Choice B reason: Bowel sounds is not a priority nursing assessment for this client, because magnesium sulfate does not have a significant effect on the gastrointestinal system. The nurse should assess the client's bowel sounds as part of the routine physical examination, but it is not a critical parameter for this medication.
Choice C reason: Time of last food intake is not a priority nursing assessment for this client, because magnesium sulfate does not interact with food or affect the absorption of nutrients. The nurse should inquire about the client's dietary intake and preferences, but it is not a vital factor for this medication.
Choice D reason: Temperature is not a priority nursing assessment for this client, because magnesium sulfate does not cause fever or hypothermia. The nurse should measure the client's temperature as part of the vital signs, but it is not a key indicator for this medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the cervix partially or completely. It can cause painless vaginal bleeding, but not abdominal pain.
Choice B reason: Prolapsed cord is a condition where the umbilical cord slips through the cervix and protrudes into the vagina or beyond. It can cause fetal distress, but not abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding.
Choice C reason: Incompetent cervix is a condition where the cervix dilates prematurely and painlessly. It can cause preterm labor and delivery, but not abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding.
Choice D reason: Abruptio placentae is a condition where the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery. It can cause severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and fetal distress. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
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