A nurse is explaining TTN to the newborn's mother. Which statement indicates that the mother understands the teaching?

Choice A reason:

Drying the newborn's skin thoroughly is the nurse's priority after assuring a patent airway because it reduces evaporative heat loss by the newborn and prevents cold stress. Cold stress can lead to hypoxia, hypoglycemia, acidosis, and increased bilirubin levels. Drying the newborn also stimulates breathing and crying, which are signs of a healthy newborn.

Choice B reason:

Administering phytonadione IM is not the nurse's priority because it is not an immediate life-saving intervention. Phytonadione is given to prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, which is caused by vitamin K deficiency. However, this condition usually occurs after the first day of life, so administering phytonadione can be delayed until after the initial assessment and stabilization of the newborn.

Choice C reason:

Documenting the Apgar score is not the nurse's priority because it is not an action that directly affects the newborn's well-being. The Apgar score is a tool to assess the newborn's condition at 1 and 5 minutes after birth based on five criteria: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color. The Apgar score can help guide the nurse's interventions, but it is not more important than providing care to the newborn.

Choice D reason:

Applying identification bands is not the nurse's priority because it is not an urgent or essential action. Identification bands are used to ensure the safety and security of the newborn and prevent errors or mix-ups. However, applying identification bands can be done after the newborn is dried, warmed, and assessed for any problems.

Choice A reason:

Preterm birth is a major risk factor for neonatal sepsis, especially early-onset sepsis. Preterm babies have immature immune systems and lack antibodies to protect them against certain bacteria.

Choice B reason:

Cesarean birth is not a risk factor for neonatal sepsis by itself, unless it is associated with other factors such as prolonged rupture of membranes, maternal infection or chorioamnionitis.

Choice C reason:

Precipitous delivery is a risk factor for neonatal sepsis, especially early-onset sepsis. Precipitous delivery can cause fetal distress, hypoxia, acidosis and increased susceptibility to infection.

Choice D reason:

Frequent vaginal exams are a risk factor for neonatal sepsis, especially early-onset sepsis. Frequent vaginal exams can introduce bacteria into the amniotic fluid and increase the risk of ascending infection.

Choice E reason:

Mother has GBS infection is a risk factor for neonatal sepsis, especially early-onset sepsis. GBS (group B streptococcus) is the most common cause of early-onset neonatal sepsis and can be transmitted from the mother to the baby during labor and delivery.