The nurse admits a newborn to the admission nursery and prepares to bathe the baby for the first time after assessing which of the following?
Two hours since last eating.
Temperature 36.2°C axillary on radiant warmer.
Drying of the umbilical cord.
Stable temperature for 2 hours.
The Correct Answer is D
A. This is not a primary consideration before bathing a newborn. The timing of the last feeding is more relevant to assessing the risk of hypoglycemia rather than determining readiness for a bath.
B. This temperature is slightly below the recommended range for newborns (36.5°C to 37.5°C). Bathing should be delayed until the newborn's temperature is stable.
C. While care of the umbilical cord is important, it does not determine the timing of the first bath. The cord can be kept dry even if the baby is bathed.
D. Ensuring that the newborn has maintained a stable body temperature for at least 2 hours is crucial before giving the first bath. Bathing can cause a drop in body temperature, so it's essential that the newborn's thermoregulation is stable to avoid hypothermia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A blood glucose fingerstick of 40 mg/dL for an infant who is 1-hr old: A blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL is borderline low but expected in the immediate postnatal period, especially if the infant is asymptomatic. Feeding the infant is the first step to address this, and monitoring is usually sufficient unless symptoms of hypoglycemia develop.
B. A hematocrit of 60% in an infant who is 8-hr old: This value is at the upper end of normal for a newborn and may suggest mild polycythemia. However, it does not require urgent notification unless accompanied by symptoms such as respiratory distress or poor perfusion
C. Jaundice in an infant who is 4-hr old: Early-onset jaundice (within the first 24 hours) is not normal and suggests a potentially dangerous underlying condition, such as hemolytic disease of the newborn or infection. Immediate reporting and further evaluation, including bilirubin levels and possible treatment with phototherapy, are essential.
D. Acrocyanosis in an infant who is 2-hr old: Acrocyanosis (bluish discoloration of the hands and feet) is a common and benign finding in the first 24 to 48 hours after birth due to immature circulation. It does not require notification or intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
"My baby will be placed under special lights if the test is elevated.”.
Choice A rationale:

This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the body. If the PKU test is elevated, it means that the baby has high levels of phenylalanine, and immediate dietary intervention is required. The parent's statement about special lights suggests a confusion with jaundice treatment, which is not related to PKU.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is accurate. Before the PKU test is done, the baby needs to consume formula or breast milk to ensure accurate test results.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is also accurate. PKU is a genetic disorder that can be managed with a special diet low in phenylalanine. By adhering to the prescribed diet, the harmful effects of PKU can be minimized.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is accurate. It is common for the PKU test to be repeated at the 2-week check- up to confirm the initial results and ensure early detection and management of PKU if present.
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