A nurse is planning care immediately following birth for a newborn who has a myelomeningocele that is leaking cerebrospinal fluid. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Monitor the rectal temperature every 4 hr.
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine.
Prepare for surgical closure after 72 hr
The Correct Answer is B
A. Monitor the rectal temperature every 4 hr: Rectal temperature measurement is contraindicated in this newborn due to the risk of trauma to the spinal cord or irritation of the leaking sac. Axillary temperature monitoring is a safer alternative.
B. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics help prevent infection from organisms entering through the exposed or leaking sac. This is a priority intervention to ensure the safety of the newborn.
C. Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine: Povidone-iodine is not recommended for cleansing the sac, as it can cause irritation or toxicity. Instead, the sac should be kept clean and moist with a sterile, saline-soaked dressing.
D. Prepare for surgical closure after 72 hr: Surgical closure of the defect is typically performed within 24 to 48 hours after birth to minimize infection risk and prevent further damage to neural tissue. Waiting beyond this window is not standard practice for a leaking myelomeningocele.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Rust-stained urine: This is a common finding in newborns and is due to urate crystals in the urine. It is benign and typically resolves as the infant's kidney function matures.
B. Transient circumoral cyanosis: This is a common finding in newborns, particularly during crying or feeding, and it usually resolves on its own. It does not typically indicate a serious condition.
C. A single palmar crease (also known as a simian crease) can be a normal variant, but it is often associated with certain congenital anomalies or chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome. The nurse should report this finding to the provider for further evaluation and possible genetic testing.
D. Subconjunctival hemorrhage: This can occur during delivery due to the pressure of vaginal birth. It is harmless and usually resolves within a few weeks without treatment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Discomfort in the lower back (sacral area) is common during labor, particularly during contractions. This is not an unusual finding that would require immediate reassessment.
B. Contractions lasting between 45 to 60 seconds are typical during the active phase of labor. This duration of contractions is expected as labor progresses, and does not require immediate reassessment.
C. This sensation can indicate that the fetus has descended into the birth canal and may be a sign that the client is entering the second stage of labor, or is close to delivery. This requires immediate reassessment by the nurse to check for full cervical dilation and fetal descent.
D. Emotional excitement and changes in skin temperature are typical responses during labor due to the physiological and emotional aspects of childbirth. This does not indicate the need for immediate reassessment.
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