A nurse is caring for a preterm infant who has intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent increased intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees.
Avoid suctioning unless absolutely necessary.
Administer analgesics as prescribed.
All of the above.
The Correct Answer is D
All of the above.
The nurse should take all of the following actions to prevent increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in a preterm infant who has intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH):
• Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees. This helps to reduce venous congestion and improve cerebral blood flow.
• Avoid suctioning unless absolutely necessary. Suctioning can cause hypoxia, bradycardia, and increased ICP.
• Administer analgesics as prescribed. Pain can increase blood pressure and ICP.
Choice A is wrong because elevating the head of the bed alone is not enough to prevent increased ICP.
Choice B is wrong because avoiding suctioning alone is not enough to prevent increased ICP.
Choice C is wrong because administering analgesics alone is not enough to prevent increased ICP.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Encouraging frequent breastfeeding.
This is because breastfeeding provides glucose to the newborn baby, which can help prevent or treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).Hypoglycemia can cause problems such as shakiness, blue tint to the skin, and breathing and feeding problems.
Choice A is wrong because administering IV insulin would lower the blood sugar level even more, which could be dangerous for the baby.
Choice C is wrong because monitoring blood pressure is not directly related to hypoglycemia.
Blood pressure may be affected by other factors such as stress, infection, or dehydration.
Choice D is wrong because administering a hypertonic saline solution would increase the sodium level in the blood, which could cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
A hypertonic saline solution is not a source of glucose for the baby.
Normal ranges for blood glucose levels in newborns are between 47 to 85 mg/dL.Hypoglycemia is defined as blood glucose below 47 mg/dL.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because the infant born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) may have meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), which is a condition that causes respiratory distress due to the inhalation of meconium into the lungs.The priority action for the nurse is to evaluate the infant’s breathing and circulation and initiate resuscitation if needed.
Choice A is wrong because suctioning the infant’s mouth and nose with a bulb syringe is not recommended unless the infant has obvious meconium in the airway and is not vigorous.Suctioning may cause bradycardia, hypoxia, or airway trauma.
Choice C is wrong because drying and stimulating the infant with a warm towel is part of the initial steps of resuscitation, but it should be done after assessing the infant’s heart rate and respiratory effort.Drying and stimulating may also increase the risk of meconium aspiration if the infant gasps.
Choice D is wrong because clamping and cutting the umbilical cord is not a priority action for an infant with possible MAS.The cord should be clamped and cut after ensuring that the infant is stable and has adequate oxygenation.
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.