A nurse is caring for a newborn who has jaundice and a new prescription for phototherapy.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:
Yellow exudate will form at the surgical site in 24 hours, which is a normal part of the healing process.
Choice B rationale:
A dark red appearance of the penis could indicate a complication such as infection or necrosis, which would require medical attention.
Choice C rationale:
The Plastibell is not removed manually; it falls off naturally within 5 to 8 days.
Choice D rationale:
A snug diaper could cause pressure and discomfort on the surgical site; it’s recommended to fasten the diaper loosely.

The Plastibell circumcision technique is one of the most common methods of newborn circumcision. It involves placing a plastic ring under the foreskin and tying a suture around it to cut off blood flow. The foreskin then falls off naturally with the ring in seven to 10 days.

The correct answer is A. The nurse should include that “yellow exudate will form at the surgical site in 24 hours” as part of the teaching to the parents. This is because the yellow exudate is a normal sign of healing and should not be confused with infection.

The other options are incorrect because:

b. The parents should notify the provider if the end of the baby’s penis appears black, not dark red. This could indicate that the ring is too tight and is cutting off blood supply to the glans.
c. The Plastibell will not be removed 4 hours after the procedure. It will stay on the penis until the foreskin falls off naturally in seven to 10 days.
d. The newborn’s diaper should be loose, not snug. This is to prevent the ring from being dislodged or rubbing against the diaper.

Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice B rationale:
Uterine tenderness is a common symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice C rationale:
Fetal tachycardia is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice D rationale:
Leukorrhea is not associated with abruptio placentae.

The most likely finding the nurse should expect in a client experiencing abruptio placenta during labor is:

b. Uterine tenderness.

Here's why:

• Hypertension (a):While preeclampsia can increase the risk of abruptio placenta,it's not always present,and hypertension wouldn't be the immediate expected finding during the abruption event itself.
• Fetal tachycardia (c):This can occur in early stages of abruption to compensate for decreased oxygen supply,but as the abruption becomes more severe,fetal bradycardia is more likely due to oxygen deprivation.
• Leukorrhea (d):This is a white vaginal discharge and has no connection to abruptio placenta.

Uterine tenderness is a characteristic sign of abruptio placenta due to bleeding behind the placenta and irritation of the uterine muscle. This is often accompanied by:

• Vaginal bleeding (bright red or dark)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Sudden, ongoing uterine tightening or irritability
• Fetal distress (decreased fetal heart rate movements)

Therefore, option b is the most expected finding in this scenario.

Remember: Early recognition and prompt management of abruptio placenta are crucial for optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. If you suspect abruptio placenta, immediate medical attention is essential.