A nurse is caring for a mother who delivered vaginally 2 hours ago.
Hemoglobin: 9 g/dL (11 to 14 g/dL). Hematocrit: 30% (36 to 43%). Platelets: 220,000/mm³ (150,000 to 400,000/mm³). WBC count: 12,000/mm³ (4,000 to 15,000/mm³). Temperature: 38.3°C (100.9°F). Select the 4 findings the nurse should report to the provider.

Choice A rationale

Stools are a normal occurrence in newborns and are not typically associated with significant complications. The frequency and consistency can vary, but abnormal stools would not explain the given vital signs.

Choice B rationale

Temperature control is vital in newborns, but the given temperature is slightly low and alone does not indicate a specific complication without additional context such as infection or environment.

Choice C rationale

Feeding difficulties can occur in newborns, but they would typically present with symptoms related to weight and growth rather than the specific vital signs provided.

Choice D rationale

Extremities’ conditions, such as cyanosis or poor circulation, could indicate complications, but the given vital signs are not directly indicative of extremity problems.

Choice E rationale

Hypoglycemia in newborns can present with signs like jitteriness or lethargy, but it does not directly correlate with the provided vital signs without additional glucose measurements.

Choice F rationale

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) includes symptoms such as high heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature instability, which align with the newborn's vital signs.

Choice A rationale

Drying and covering the infant helps prevent heat loss and maintain body temperature, which is essential for newborns immediately after birth.

Choice B rationale

Stimulating the infant to cry helps clear the airways but is usually done after ensuring the respiratory tract is clear.

Choice C rationale

Clearing the respiratory tract is the priority immediately after birth to ensure the newborn can breathe properly and reduce the risk of aspiration.

Choice D rationale

Assessing the umbilical cord is important but not the first priority. Ensuring the airway is clear takes precedence to establish effective breathing. .