The nurse is caring for a newborn with suspected neonatal abstinence syndrome.
The mother is currently taking methadone and is in a treatment program.
Which intervention should the nurse implement prior to discharge?

Choice A rationale

The symptoms of jitteriness, hypotonia, weak cry, and low temperature can indicate hypoglycemia in a newborn. Obtaining a heel stick blood glucose level is crucial to confirm the diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.

Choice B rationale

While keeping the infant warm is important, it does not address the underlying issue of potential hypoglycemia, which needs to be identified and treated promptly.

Choice C rationale

Placing a pulse oximeter on the heel assesses oxygen saturation, which is not directly related to the symptoms described. The primary concern here is glucose level, not oxygen saturation.

Choice D rationale

Documenting the findings is important but does not provide immediate intervention for potential hypoglycemia, which requires urgent glucose level assessment and treatment if necessary. .

Choice A rationale

Monitoring hourly blood pressure is essential, but it is not the most crucial data in this scenario. Blood pressure monitoring can help identify maternal hypotension or hypertension, which can affect uteroplacental blood flow. However, hypotonic dystocia requires monitoring contractions to assess labor progression and effectiveness of oxytocin.

Choice B rationale

Preparing for an emergency cesarean birth is a potential intervention if labor does not progress or if fetal distress occurs. However, it is not the primary data to monitor initially. The decision for a cesarean is based on a comprehensive assessment, including fetal heart rate patterns and contraction quality.

Choice C rationale

Checking the perineum for bulging may indicate imminent delivery or fetal descent. However, in the context of hypotonic dystocia, the primary concern is evaluating contraction patterns to ensure the effectiveness of oxytocin in augmenting labor.

Choice D rationale

Monitoring the intensity, interval, and length of contractions is the most critical data in this case. Hypotonic dystocia involves weak, infrequent, or irregular contractions. Oxytocin is administered to strengthen and regularize contractions, so assessing their characteristics is crucial to determine the response to treatment and guide further interventions.