A nurse is caring for a newborn and hears an apical heart rate of 130/min. What should the nurse do next?
Document this as an expected finding.
Call the provider to further assess the newborn.
Prepare the newborn for transport to the NICU.
Ask another nurse to verify the heart rate.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A newborn’s heart rate normally varies between 120 and 160 beats per minute, but it can rise to 180 beats per minute when the infant is crying or drop as low as 80 to 90 beats per minute when in deep sleep. Therefore, an apical heart rate of 130/min is within the normal range for a newborn.
Choice B rationale
There is no need to call the provider for further assessment if the newborn’s heart rate is within the normal range.
Choice C rationale
Preparing the newborn for transport to the NICU is not necessary if the heart rate is within the normal range.
Choice D rationale
Asking another nurse to verify the heart rate is not necessary if the heart rate is within the normal range.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Terbutaline does not typically cause a decrease in maternal blood glucose levels. It is a medication used to relax the muscles in the uterus to prevent premature labor.
Choice B rationale
Terbutaline does not enhance the production of fetal lung surfactant. It is used to relax the muscles in the uterus to prevent premature labor.
Choice C rationale
Weakened uterine contractions are an expected finding in a client who has received terbutaline. Terbutaline is a tocolytic medication, which means it works to inhibit uterine contractions in order to prevent or halt preterm labor.
Choice D rationale
Terbutaline does not typically cause a decrease in fetal heart rate. It is used to relax the muscles in the uterus to prevent premature labor.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The nurse should reassure the patient by informing her about the hospital’s capabilities to handle such situations. The neonatal unit in the hospital is equipped to handle emergencies and care for preterm babies. This response is factual and directly addresses the patient’s concern about the baby’s well-being.
Choice B rationale
While it’s true that everyone worries about their baby when they’re in labor, this response doesn’t directly address the patient’s concern about the baby’s health and well-being. It’s more of a general statement and doesn’t provide the reassurance the patient is seeking.
Choice C rationale
This response acknowledges the patient’s feelings, which is an important aspect of patient care. However, it doesn’t provide any information or reassurance about the baby’s health. The patient is specifically asking about the baby’s well-being, so the response should focus on that.
Choice D rationale
This response could be misleading. While it’s true that the chances of survival for preterm babies improve with each passing week, it’s not guaranteed that a baby born at 32 weeks will be fine. It’s important to provide accurate information and not give false reassurances.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.