A nurse is caring for a newborn whose blood glucose level is 40. Which of the following interventions has priority in the nurse's plan of care?
Evaluate glucose levels again in 4 hours.
Assess for hypothermia.
Notify MD on call.
Evaluate blood serum glucose.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While it is important to monitor glucose levels, a reading of 40 mg/dL is low and requires immediate attention. Waiting 4 hours could allow the newborn's condition to deteriorate further. Hypoglycemia in newborns can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Choice B rationale
Assessing for hypothermia is essential, but it is not the first priority when a newborn has low blood glucose levels. Immediate steps should be taken to address the hypoglycemia to prevent further complications, as it is a more immediate threat to the newborn's health.
Choice C rationale
Notifying the physician on call is the correct priority intervention. A blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL is concerning, and prompt medical intervention is necessary. The physician can order appropriate treatment to stabilize the newborn's glucose levels and prevent potential complications.
Choice D rationale
Re-evaluating the blood serum glucose is important but comes after initiating immediate intervention. Continuous monitoring should follow initial treatment to ensure the newborn's glucose levels stabilize. Immediate action is crucial to address the hypoglycemia effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is F
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Abnormal stool patterns can be a sign of various issues in newborns, but they do not align with the vital signs presented. The vital signs suggest a more systemic issue rather than one isolated to digestive patterns.
Choice B rationale
While temperature regulation is critical in newborns, especially those who are preterm, the vital signs presented suggest a broader systemic issue. The symptoms do not align with isolated temperature dysregulation.
Choice C rationale
Feeding difficulties can be a sign of neonatal abstinence syndrome but are not directly reflected in the vital signs presented. Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) encompasses a range of withdrawal symptoms due to exposure to drugs in utero, not just feeding issues.
Choice D rationale
While extremity issues can be present in various neonatal conditions, they do not align with the systemic symptoms shown in the vital signs. NAS impacts multiple body systems and would present more generalized symptoms.
Choice E rationale
Hypoglycemia can present with some of these vital signs, such as a rapid heart rate, but it does not explain all the symptoms like increased respiratory rate and temperature dysregulation. It is a condition that requires monitoring but is not the primary diagnosis suggested here.
Choice F rationale
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is consistent with the vital signs: elevated heart rate, increased respiratory rate, and lower temperature. NAS results from withdrawal from substances the newborn was exposed to in utero and affects multiple body systems, explaining the range of symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
It is important to encourage breastfeeding rather than offering formula, especially if the mother wishes to breastfeed.
Choice B rationale
Pumping is not necessary at this time as the baby is just 4 hours old and establishing feeding patterns.
Choice C rationale
Consulting the pediatrician is not immediately necessary for this situation.
Choice D rationale
Teaching the mother about newborn sleep and hunger patterns is appropriate, as newborns often have irregular feeding schedules in the first few days. .
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