An 8-pound 15-ounce baby born at 35 weeks’ gestation would be described using which terminology? Select all that apply.

Choice A reason:

Preparing the newborn for transport to the NICU is unnecessary in this scenario. An apical heart rate of 130 beats per minute (bpm) is within the normal range for a newborn, which typically falls between 100 and 170 bpm. Transporting the newborn to the NICU would be appropriate if there were other signs of distress or abnormal findings, but not solely based on a heart rate of 130 bpm.

Choice B reason:

Calling the provider to further assess the newborn is not required in this case. Since the heart rate of 130 bpm is within the normal range for a newborn, there is no immediate need for further assessment by the provider. This action would be more appropriate if the heart rate were outside the normal range or if there were other concerning symptoms.

Choice C reason:

Asking another nurse to verify the heart rate is also unnecessary. The heart rate of 130 bpm is within the expected range for a newborn, so there is no need for additional verification. This step might be taken if there were doubts about the accuracy of the initial measurement or if the heart rate were abnormal.

Choice D reason:

Documenting this as an expected finding is the correct action. A heart rate of 130 bpm is normal for a newborn, and it should be recorded as such in the newborn’s medical records. Proper documentation ensures accurate tracking of the newborn’s health status and helps in monitoring any changes over time.

Choice A reason:

The dorsogluteal muscle is not recommended for intramuscular injections in newborns due to the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve. Additionally, this muscle is not well-developed in newborns, making it a less effective site for medication absorption.

Choice B reason:

The vastus lateralis muscle, located on the lateral aspect of the thigh, is the preferred site for intramuscular injections in newborns. This muscle is well-developed at birth, providing a large and safe area for the injection. It also has fewer major blood vessels and nerves, reducing the risk of injury. The vastus lateralis muscle ensures effective absorption of the medication, making it the optimal choice for administering vitamin K to prevent vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB).

Choice C reason:

The deltoid muscle is not typically used for intramuscular injections in newborns because it is relatively small and underdeveloped at birth. This muscle is more suitable for older children and adults, where it can accommodate larger volumes of medication without causing discomfort or injury.

Choice D reason:

The ventrogluteal muscle is another site that is not commonly used for newborns. While it is a safe and effective site for intramuscular injections in older children and adults, it is not as easily accessible in newborns. The vastus lateralis remains the preferred site due to its size and ease of access.