A nurse is caring for a newborn immediately following birth.

For which of the following reasons should the nurse delay the instillation of antibiotic ophthalmic ointment?

Choice A rationale
An oxygen saturation of 89% in a newborn who was born 2 hours ago and was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit with chest wall retractions and blue discoloration of the hands and feet indicates a decline in the newborn’s status. This level of oxygen saturation is below the normal range for a newborn, which is typically above 95%10111213. This could indicate that the newborn is not getting enough oxygen, which could be due to a variety of conditions, including respiratory distress syndrome.
Choice B rationale
Nasal flaring is a sign of respiratory distress in a newborn. However, it is a nonspecific sign and does not necessarily indicate a decline in the newborn’s status. It could be a normal response to the newborn’s efforts to breathe more effectively.
Choice C rationale
Fine crackles can be a sign of a lung condition in a newborn. However, they are a nonspecific sign and do not necessarily indicate a decline in the newborn’s status. They could be a normal finding in a newborn who was born 2 hours ago.
Choice D rationale
An apneic episode less than 15 seconds in a newborn who was born 2 hours ago is not necessarily indicative of a decline in the newborn’s status. Brief periods of apnea (pauses in breathing) are common in newborns and are usually not a cause for concern unless they last longer than 20 seconds or are associated with other signs of distress.

Choice A rationale
Limiting the length of breastfeeding to 5 minutes per breast is not typically recommended. It’s important for the baby to empty each breast completely, as the fat content of the milk increases as the breast empties.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the newborn’s latch while breastfeeding is crucial. A poor latch can cause sore nipples. The baby should take as much of the areola into their mouth as possible, with more areola showing at the top lip than the bottom.
Choice C rationale
Waiting 4 hours between daytime feedings is not typically recommended for a breastfeeding newborn. Newborns typically need to feed every 2-3 hours, or 8-12 times in 24 hours.
Choice D rationale
Offering supplemental formula between the newborn’s feedings can interfere with establishing a good milk supply and should be avoided unless medically necessary.