The nurse is performing a newborn assessment.
Which symptom, if present in a newborn, would indicate respiratory distress?

Respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute.

Shallow and irregular respirations.

Flaring of the nares.

Abdominal breathing with synchronous chest movement.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale

A respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute is within the normal range for a newborn and does not indicate respiratory distress. Newborns typically have a higher respiratory rate than adults, and this is considered normal.

Choice B rationale

Shallow and irregular respirations can occur in healthy newborns and do not necessarily indicate respiratory distress. It is important to monitor for additional signs of distress before making a definitive assessment.

Choice C rationale

Flaring of the nares is a sign of respiratory distress in newborns as it indicates increased effort to breathe. This symptom is associated with conditions such as respiratory distress syndrome and requires prompt medical evaluation and intervention.

Choice D rationale

Abdominal breathing with synchronous chest movement is normal for newborns as their diaphragm is the primary muscle for respiration. This type of breathing pattern does not indicate respiratory distress and is expected in healthy newborns.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Stopping oxygen per cannula after uterine hyperstimulation and subsequent contraction reduction is not appropriate. Oxygen should be continued to ensure fetal oxygenation, particularly after a period of stress caused by frequent contractions. Discontinuing oxygen too soon may compromise fetal well-being.

Choice B rationale

Checking for clonus in both feet is unrelated to the management of uterine contractions post-oxytocin administration. Clonus assessment is used in evaluating neuromuscular function, often in conditions such as preeclampsia, but not for monitoring uterine activity or response to oxytocin.

Choice C rationale

Notifying the nursery about the client's response is important for continuity of care but does not address the immediate need to manage the uterine contractions. The primary focus should be on stabilizing uterine activity before updating other departments.

Choice D rationale

Restarting the oxytocin infusion rate per protocol is the correct intervention after ensuring that the contractions have reduced to a safe frequency and duration. This approach helps to maintain labor progress while minimizing the risk of hyperstimulation and fetal distress. The nurse should follow the hospital's guidelines for oxytocin titration.

A. Administer oxygen. B. Check cervical dilation. C. Start an intravenous fluid bolus. D. Prepare for immediate delivery.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Administering oxygen would not be the priority as the fetal heart rate is normal and there are no abnormal fetal movements or signs of distress. Oxygen administration is typically reserved for cases where there is evidence of fetal hypoxia or distress.

Choice B rationale

Checking cervical dilation is essential as it provides critical information about the progress of labor and helps in determining the next steps in management. It ensures that the labor is progressing appropriately and identifies if there is a need for any medical interventions.

Choice C rationale

Starting an intravenous fluid bolus would not be the first action in this scenario as the client does not show signs of dehydration or hypotension. Fluid bolus is generally reserved for cases where there is evidence of hypovolemia or to support hemodynamic stability.

Choice D rationale

Preparing for immediate delivery is not necessary at this stage as there are no signs of fetal distress or urgent complications. The client is only 37 weeks gestation and regular assessment is crucial to ensure timely and appropriate interventions without premature actions.

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The nurse is performing a newborn assessment.Which symptom, if present in a newborn, would indicate respiratory distress?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client at 37 weeks gestation presents with contractions every 3 to 4 minutes, lasting 60 seconds.The fetal heart rate is noted to be 140 bpm, and no abnormal fetal movements are observed.The client reports no pain and normal laboratory results.Which action should the nurse implement first?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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The nurse is performing a newborn assessment.
Which symptom, if present in a newborn, would indicate respiratory distress?