A nurse is preparing to administer vitamin K by IM injection to a newborn. The nurse should administer the medication into which of the following muscles?
Dorsogluteal
Vastus lateralis
Deltoid
Ventrogluteal
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
It is not typical to see products of conception in vaginal bleeding after a D&C, as the procedure is intended to remove all remaining tissue from the uterus. Post-procedure bleeding should be monitored, but the presence of products of conception would indicate an incomplete procedure.
Choice B Reason:
While a balanced diet is important for recovery, there is no specific recommendation to increase the intake of zinc-rich foods following a D&C. The focus should be on overall nutritional support rather than specific nutrients.
Choice C Reason:
Vaginal intercourse can generally be resumed after 2 weeks, provided there are no complications and the client feels comfortable. This allows time for the cervix to close and reduces the risk of infection.
Choice D Reason:
Aspirin is not recommended for pain relief after a D&C because it can increase the risk of bleeding. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are typically recommended instead.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between the skull and the periosteum that does not cross suture lines12. It is caused by trauma during birth, such as the use of forceps or a vacuum extractor. Cephalohematomas typically resolve on their own over weeks to months and do not require treatment. However, since the swelling in this case crosses the suture lines, it is not a cephalohematoma.
Choice B Reason:
A caput succedaneum is a swelling of the scalp that occurs due to pressure during delivery. This swelling crosses suture lines and is usually seen in newborns delivered with vacuum assistance. It is a common and benign condition that typically resolves on its own within a few days. Therefore, this is the most appropriate response to the mother’s concern.
Choice C Reason:
Mongolian spots are flat, blue-gray birthmarks that are commonly found on the lower back or buttocks of newborns. They are not related to swelling or trauma from birth and do not cross suture lines. These spots are harmless and usually fade over time. Since the mother’s concern is about a swollen area on the head, mentioning Mongolian spots would not be relevant.
Choice D Reason:
A telangiectatic nevus, also known as a “stork bite” or “angel kiss,” is a common vascular birthmark that appears as a flat, pink or red spot on the skin These marks are usually found on the face, neck, or back of the head and are caused by dilated capillaries. They are benign and typically fade over time. However, they do not present as swelling that crosses suture lines, so this explanation would not address the mother’s concern.
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