A nurse is providing newborn discharge teaching to a client whose newborn recently had a circumcision done in the hospital.

Exhibits

Which of the following statements should the nurse include when providing discharge teaching for the parent about circumcision care? For each statement made by the nurse, click to specify whether the statement is essential or contraindicated.

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.

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.