The nurse is about to administer phytonadione to a newborn.
Which statement by the parents shows they understand why this medication is being given?
It stimulates the immune system.
It aids an immature liver.
It prevents hemorrhagic disorders.
It compensates for insufficient dietary intake.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While it’s true that phytonadione, also known as vitamin K, plays a role in the immune system, this is not the primary reason it is given to newborns. Therefore, this statement does not show an understanding of why the medication is being given.
Choice B rationale
Phytonadione does not aid an immature liver. It is necessary for the synthesis of certain proteins required for blood clotting. However, it does not directly aid the liver’s function.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct statement. Phytonadione is given to newborns to prevent hemorrhagic disorders, specifically vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). Newborns are at risk for VKDB because their gut does not yet have the bacteria necessary to produce vitamin K5.
Choice D rationale
While it’s true that vitamin K is obtained from dietary intake, newborns do not receive phytonadione to compensate for insufficient dietary intake. They receive it to prevent VKDB, a bleeding disorder caused by vitamin K deficiency.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While acetaminophen can help reduce fever, it does not address the underlying cause of the client’s symptoms. Moreover, self-medication without proper medical advice can potentially harm the pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
The client’s symptoms of low-grade fever, moderate cramping, and heavy bright-red bleeding could indicate a serious condition such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.
Choice C rationale
While monitoring the flow of vaginal bleeding can provide useful information, it does not address the immediate need for medical evaluation given the client’s symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Resting at home might not be the best advice given the severity of the client’s symptoms. Immediate medical evaluation is necessary.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While notifying the healthcare provider of the assessment findings is important, it would not be the first action to take. The nurse should first gather more information about the client’s condition.
Choice B rationale
Obtaining a STAT hemoglobin and hematocrit would not be the first action to take. These tests could provide information about the client’s blood volume and potential for anemia, but they would not directly address the client’s complaint of a severe headache.
Choice C rationale
Determining if the client received anesthesia during delivery is the correct first action. A severe headache in the postpartum period can be a sign of a post-dural puncture headache, which can occur as a complication of spinal or epidural anesthesia.
Choice D rationale
Assigning a practical nurse (PN) to reassess the client’s vital signs would not be the first action to take. While ongoing monitoring of the client’s vital signs is important, the nurse should first investigate the potential cause of the client’s severe headache.
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