A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is pregnant and whose routine diagnostic testing reveals a negative rubella titer.
Which of the following statements should the nurse tell the client?

Choice A rationale:

The instruction to "cover the cord with the diaper" is incorrect. It's essential to keep the umbilical cord stump dry and exposed to air to promote healing. Covering it with a diaper can trap moisture and increase the risk of infection.

Choice B rationale:

The recommendation to "wrap the cord in petroleum jelly gauze" is not appropriate. Applying petroleum jelly or other ointments to the cord stump is not recommended, as it can also trap moisture and create an environment for bacterial growth.

Choice C rationale:

The instruction to "bathe the newborn with a washcloth until the cord stump falls off" is not the best practice. It's advisable to give sponge baths and avoid submerging the cord stump until it has completely dried and fallen off. Using a washcloth may cause unnecessary friction and irritation.

Choice D rationale:

The advice to "wash the cord daily with mild soap and water" is the correct instruction. Cleaning the cord stump with mild soap and water and then gently patting it dry with a clean cloth is a standard practice for cord care. Keeping the area clean helps prevent infection and promotes healing.

Choice A rationale:

The purpose of administering vitamin K to a newborn is to prevent bleeding. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting. Newborns often have lower levels of vitamin K, which can make them more susceptible to bleeding disorders, such as hemorrhagic disease of the newborn (HDN). HDN can lead to serious bleeding complications, including intracranial hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening.

Choice B rationale:

Hyperbilirubinemia is not the primary purpose of administering vitamin K. While vitamin K can indirectly help in preventing jaundice (hyperbilirubinemia) by reducing the risk of bleeding that may lead to hemolysis, it is not the primary aim of vitamin K administration.

Choice C rationale:

Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) is not a primary concern related to vitamin K administration. Vitamin K is specifically administered to prevent bleeding disorders and not to address potassium levels.

Choice D rationale:

Infection is not related to the administration of vitamin K. Vitamin K is not used to prevent or treat infections in newborns; its primary role is in blood clotting.