The nurse is assessing a newborn who was precipitously delivered at 38-weeks gestation The newborn is tremulous, tachycardic, and hypertensive. Which assessment action is most important for the nurse to implement?
Obtain a drug screen for cocaine
Weigh and measure the newborn
Determine reactivity of neonatal reflexes
Perform gestational age assessment
The Correct Answer is A
A. Obtain a drug screen for cocaine: Given the symptoms described (tremulous, tachycardic, hypertensive), there may be concern about drug exposure, and cocaine is a substance known to cause such symptoms in newborns. Therefore, obtaining a drug screen for cocaine is a reasonable and important action to determine if there was prenatal exposure.
B. Weigh and measure the newborn: While weighing and measuring the newborn is a routine part of the newborn assessment, it may not be the most crucial action in this context. The symptoms described suggest the need for a more immediate assessment related to possible drug exposure.
C. Determine reactivity of neonatal reflexes: Assessing the reactivity of neonatal reflexes is an important part of the newborn assessment, but in this specific situation, the symptoms described (tremulous, tachycardic, hypertensive) may warrant a more focused and immediate assessment related to drug exposure.
D. Perform gestational age assessment: Gestational age assessment is essential for understanding the newborn's maturity and adjusting care accordingly. However, in this scenario, the immediate concern seems to be the symptoms the newborn is presenting with, and addressing the possibility of drug exposure takes precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Use a fingertip to palpate the inguinal canal for a weakening or indentation:
This is a reasonable next step in assessing for undescended testes. Palpating the inguinal canal can help determine if the testes are located in the inguinal area.
B.Measure the size of the scrotal sac for length and width:
While scrotal size can be relevant in some contexts, it may not provide direct information about the presence or absence of the testes. Palpation or other methods are more specific for this purpose.
C. Perform transillumination of the scrotal sac to visualize shadows of the testes:
Transillumination involves shining light through tissues to detect structures. However, in the case of evaluating the presence of testes, palpation is usually a more direct and accurate method.
D. Observe the urethral opening on the surface of the penis when the newborn voids:
This option is unrelated to assessing the presence of testes. Observing the urethral opening is more relevant for assessing the anatomy of the penis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Estimated amount of fluid:
Knowing the estimated amount of amniotic fluid can provide some information, but it may not be as crucial as other factors in this situation. The primary concern is often related to the color and odor of the amniotic fluid to assess for potential issues.
B. Color and consistency of fluid:
This is a crucial piece of information. The color and consistency of amniotic fluid can provide important clues about fetal well-being and the presence of meconium, which may indicate fetal distress.
C. Time the membranes ruptured:
Knowing the time when the membranes ruptured is essential for assessing the duration of time since the rupture. This information helps in determining the risk of infection, which is a concern after prolonged rupture of membranes.
D. Any odor noted when membranes ruptured:
This is also a critical piece of information. An unpleasant odor, especially if it is foul-smelling, could be indicative of infection. Infection risk increases with prolonged rupture of membranes.
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