A nurse is caring for a newborn whose mother has diabetes mellitus.
The nurse should recognize which of the following potential newborn complications as the priority focus of care?
Hyperbilirubinemia.
Hypomagnesemia.
Hypocalcemia.
Hypoglycemia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Hyperbilirubinemia, or high levels of bilirubin in the blood, can occur in newborns of diabetic mothers due to increased red blood cell breakdown. However, it is not the primary concern immediately after birth. The priority is to address conditions that can cause immediate harm, such as hypoglycemia.
Choice B rationale
Hypomagnesemia, or low magnesium levels, can occur in newborns of diabetic mothers, but it is not the most critical issue. Magnesium levels can be monitored and corrected if necessary, but hypoglycemia poses a more immediate threat to the newborn’s health.
Choice C rationale
Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels, can also occur in newborns of diabetic mothers. While it is important to monitor and manage calcium levels, hypoglycemia is a more urgent concern because it can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly.
Choice D rationale
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, is the most critical concern for newborns of diabetic mothers. These newborns are at high risk for hypoglycemia due to the high levels of insulin they produce in response to their mother’s elevated blood glucose levels during pregnancy. Hypoglycemia can cause serious complications, including seizures and brain damage, if not treated immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Shivering is not a primary concern for newborns as they have limited ability to shiver. Instead, they rely on non-shivering thermogenesis to maintain body temperature.
Choice B rationale
Cold stress is a significant concern for newborns as it can lead to hypothermia, increased oxygen consumption, and metabolic acidosis. Placing a newborn under a radiant heat warmer helps maintain their body temperature and prevent cold stress.
Choice C rationale
Brown fat production is a natural process in newborns that helps generate heat. However, the primary purpose of using a radiant heat warmer is to prevent cold stress, not to stimulate brown fat production.
Choice D rationale
Basal metabolic rate reduction is not the primary concern. The focus is on preventing cold stress and maintaining the newborn’s body temperature.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The xiphoid process is not the correct anatomical landmark for measuring chest circumference in newborns. It is located at the lower end of the sternum and does not provide a consistent measurement point.
Choice B rationale
The fifth intercostal space is not used for measuring chest circumference in newborns. This space is located between the ribs and is not a reliable landmark for consistent measurements.
Choice C rationale
The sternal notch is not the correct landmark for measuring chest circumference. It is located at the top of the sternum and does not provide a consistent measurement point.
Choice D rationale
The nipple line is the correct anatomical landmark for measuring chest circumference in newborns. This method ensures that the measurement is taken at a consistent and reproducible location, providing an accurate assessment of the chest size relative to growth and development standards.
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.