A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a postpartum client about caring for her 5-day-old male newborn at home. Which of the following statements should the nurse make to the client?

The correct answer is choice A, administer broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Choice A rationale:

Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial for a newborn with a myelomeningocele that is leaking cerebrospinal fluid to prevent infection. The leaking of cerebrospinal fluid can increase the risk of meningitis, which is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are used as a prophylactic measure to reduce this risk.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring the rectal temperature every 4 hours is important for detecting fever, which could indicate infection. However, it is not the most immediate action required for a newborn with a leaking myelomeningocele. The priority is to prevent infection through the administration of antibiotics.

Choice C rationale:

Cleansing the site with povidone-iodine is not recommended for a myelomeningocele because it can be toxic to the exposed neural tissue. Instead, the area should be covered with a sterile saline dressing to protect the site and prevent drying and further damage to the neural tissue.

Choice D rationale:

While surgical closure is necessary for a newborn with myelomeningocele, it is typically performed within 24 to 48 hours after birth, not after 72 hours. Early closure is essential to reduce the risk of infection and further damage to the exposed spinal cord and nerves.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not apply lotion to the newborn's skin during phototherapy. Phototherapy involves exposing the newborn's skin to light to treat jaundice by breaking down bilirubin. Applying lotion may interfere with the effectiveness of the therapy and may not be recommended as it can make it difficult for the skin to release heat generated during the process.

Choice B rationale:

Giving the newborn glucose water every 4 hours is not a necessary action during phototherapy. The primary concern during phototherapy is to treat jaundice, and giving glucose water may not have a direct impact on the effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, it is important to focus on monitoring the newborn's bilirubin levels and hydration status.

Choice D rationale:

Dressing the newborn in a thin layer of clothing during phototherapy is not recommended. Phototherapy works best when the newborn's skin is exposed to a light source, and covering the skin with clothing may decrease the effectiveness of the treatment.