“A nurse is caring for a patient who reports spontaneous rupture of membranes.

The nurse observes fetal bradycardia on the FHR tracing and notices that the umbilical cord is protruding.

After calling for assistance and notifying the provider, which of the following actions should the nurse take next?”

Choice A rationale
Turning a baby’s car seat forward when they are 1 year old is not recommended. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should ride in a rear-facing car seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat. This is because rear-facing car seats provide the best protection for the baby’s head, neck, and spine in a crash.
Choice B rationale
While it’s important to keep a baby warm in the car seat, using a sleep sack is not the safest option. Bulky outerwear and blankets can interfere with the tightness of the harness, which can compromise the safety of the baby. Instead, it’s recommended to dress the baby in lighter layers and place a warm blanket over them and the harness.
Choice C rationale
A car seat challenge test, also known as a car seat trial, is usually performed on babies who were born preterm, not at full term. This test checks whether the baby can sit in a car seat safely without any breathing problems or other complications. Since the newborn in question was delivered at 38 weeks of gestation, which is considered full term, a car seat challenge test is not typically required.
Choice D rationale
The car seat should indeed be positioned at a 45-degree angle. This angle is especially important for newborns and infants who are rear-facing, as it helps to support their head and prevent it from falling forward.

Choice A rationale
Providing a stimulating environment is not recommended for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). These infants often have a heightened response to stimuli, and a calm, quiet environment is usually more beneficial.
Choice B rationale
While it is important to monitor the infant’s overall health, there is no specific need to monitor blood glucose level every hour in infants with NAS unless there is a separate medical indication.
Choice C rationale
Initiating seizure precautions is an appropriate action for a nurse caring for an infant with signs of NAS5. Infants with NAS are at risk for seizures, so nurses should be prepared to manage this potential complication.
Choice D rationale
Placing the infant on his back with legs extended is not recommended. Infants with NAS often have increased muscle tone and may be uncomfortable in this position.