Four newborns were admitted into the neonatal nursery 1 hour ago. They are all sleeping in overhead warmers. Which of the babies should the nurse ask the neonatologist to evaluate?
The neonate with respirations of 78 and a heart rate of 176
The neonate with a temperature of 99.1 F and a weight of 3000 grams
The neonate with raised white specks on the gums
The neonate with white spots on the bridge of the nose
The Correct Answer is A
A) The neonate with respirations of 78 and a heart rate of 176:
This is the most concerning finding and requires immediate evaluation. Normal respiratory rate for a newborn is typically between 30 and 60 breaths per minute, so a rate of 78 breaths per minute is significantly elevated, indicating potential respiratory distress. Additionally, a heart rate of 176 beats per minute, while somewhat elevated, could indicate tachycardia, especially if the baby is experiencing distress or inadequate oxygenation. This combination of abnormal vital signs may point to respiratory or cardiovascular compromise, such as respiratory distress syndrome or other neonatal respiratory issues, which requires immediate evaluation and intervention.
B) The neonate with a temperature of 99.1°F and a weight of 3000 grams:
This neonate’s temperature is within the normal range (97.7°F to 99.5°F), and a weight of 3000 grams is also considered appropriate for a full-term newborn. These findings do not raise any immediate concerns, and no further action is necessary based on these observations alone.
C) The neonate with raised white specks on the gums:
Raised white specks or nodules on the gums are often a normal finding in newborns and are called Epstein pearls. These are benign cystic formations that do not require treatment. They are not a cause for concern and are common in newborns, usually disappearing on their own within a few weeks.
D) The neonate with white spots on the bridge of the nose:
White spots on the nose are likely to be Milia, which are small, benign cysts commonly seen on the face of newborns, particularly on the nose, cheeks, and chin. Milia are harmless and typically resolve without treatment within a few weeks. There is no need for concern in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Excessive uterine bleeding:
Bladder distention can displace the uterus to the right and elevate it above the umbilicus, interfering with uterine contraction. This displacement prevents the uterus from contracting effectively, which can lead to excessive uterine bleeding, a serious complication. When the uterus does not contract properly, it may not effectively compress the blood vessels, increasing the risk of hemorrhage. Immediate attention to bladder distention is crucial to prevent this potentially life-threatening issue.
B. Urinary tract infection:
While urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur in the postpartum period, especially if the bladder is not emptied completely, they are not the most immediate or serious consequence of bladder distention. The priority is to address the distended bladder to prevent complications like excessive bleeding. A UTI would be a concern later, but it would not be the most acute risk following delivery.
C. Ruptured bladder:
A ruptured bladder is a rare and severe complication but is not the most likely consequence of bladder distention in the immediate postpartum period. Bladder rupture typically occurs due to significant trauma or extreme distention, which is not common in this situation. The more immediate concern is uterine atony and hemorrhage due to displaced uterine tone from bladder distention.
D. Bladder wall atony:
Bladder wall atony could result from severe bladder distention, causing difficulty in voiding. However, this is not the most serious consequence immediately after birth. Bladder distention typically results in impaired uterine contraction, which causes bleeding rather than atony of the bladder wall itself. Addressing bladder distention will help prevent complications such as hemorrhage rather than focusing on bladder atony initially.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A) Keep the baby on his back to sleep:
Placing babies on their back to sleep is the most effective way to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends this practice. Babies should not sleep on their stomach or side because these positions increase the risk of suffocation. This position should be maintained until the baby is at least 1 year old, even though many parents may be encouraged to place babies on their tummies when they start rolling over on their own.
B) Keep the cord as dry as possible until it falls off:
It is important to keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry until it falls off, which typically happens between 1-3 weeks of life. Moisture can cause infection, so avoiding unnecessary exposure to water and keeping the stump exposed to air is essential for healing. The area should not be submerged in water until the stump falls off, and the diaper should be folded down so it doesn’t rub against it, promoting proper drying and healing.
C) Always keep the baby dressed and wrapped in 2 blankets when you go outside:
This is not an ideal practice. Overheating can be dangerous for newborns, as they have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature. Instead of wrapping the baby in two blankets, the baby should be dressed appropriately for the weather—usually in one extra layer than an adult would wear in the same conditions. This ensures the baby stays warm without the risk of overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS.
D) After your milk comes in your baby should have 3-4 wet or dirty diapers a day:
This information is inaccurate for a 2-day-old baby. After milk comes in (usually around day 3 or 4 postpartum), the baby should be producing at least 6-8 wet diapers a day and 3-4 dirty diapers by day 4 or 5. Fewer wet diapers or a decrease in bowel movements may indicate that the baby is not feeding effectively, and it is important to monitor this carefully. In the first few days, before the milk comes in, the baby might have fewer wet diapers, but by day 3-4, this is the standard for adequate hydration and nutrition.
E) Have the bulb syringe near the baby at all times:
Having a bulb syringe nearby is a good practice in case of respiratory distress. Newborns often have mucus in their airways, and a bulb syringe can help clear their nasal passages if they are having trouble breathing. While the baby should not be suctioned too frequently or aggressively, keeping a bulb syringe available can help manage mild congestion. Additionally, in the case of sudden breathing difficulties or choking, it’s important to be prepared.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.