A nurse is caring for a newborn who is 5 days old.

The mother used opioids prior to pregnancy and was prescribed methadone during pregnancy. Both the mother and the newborn tested positive for methadone in their urine drug screens.

The newborn is exhibiting clinical findings of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale
A WBC count of 11,000/mm is slightly above the normal range (5,000 to 10,000/mm), but it is not uncommon for the WBC count to increase during pregnancy due to physiological changes and increased stress on the body. However, a significantly elevated WBC count could indicate an infection or other medical condition, so it should be monitored closely.
Choice B rationale
A fasting blood glucose level of 180 mg/dL is significantly above the normal range (74 to 106 mg/dL), indicating hyperglycemia. This could be a sign of gestational diabetes, a condition that can develop during pregnancy and cause high blood sugar levels. Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of various pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, premature birth, and having a baby with a high birth weight. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider immediately.
Choice C rationale
A hematocrit level of 37% is within the normal range (37% to 47%), so it would not typically be a cause for concern.
Choice D rationale
A creatinine level of 0.9 mg/dL is within the normal range (0.5 to 1 mg/dL), so it would not typically be a cause for concern.

Choice A rationale
Administering Oxytocin to the client is an important intervention for postpartum hemorrhage, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions which can help control bleeding, but it should be administered after the initial steps of assessing the uterus and ensuring it is firm.
Choice B rationale
Massaging the client’s fundus is the priority action to address excessive vaginal bleeding. A firm, well-contracted uterine fundus often helps to control postpartum bleeding. If the uterus is not well contracted, gentle massage is often sufficient to stimulate contractions. If the uterus does not respond to massage, then further interventions such as administering Oxytocin may be necessary.
Choice C rationale
Providing oxygen to the client via a non-rebreather face mask is an intervention that might be necessary if the client shows signs of hypoxia or shock as a result of the bleeding. However, it is not the first action that should be taken.
Choice D rationale
Emptying the client’s bladder is important as a distended bladder can displace the uterus and interfere with contractions, leading to increased bleeding. However, this is not the first action to take.