The nurse notes that a newborn's white blood cell count (WBC) is 15,000. The nurse is aware that:.
This indicates a severe infection.
This is a normal WBC for a newborn.
This is a lab error.
You must call the doctor.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A white blood cell count of 15,000 does not necessarily indicate a severe infection. In newborns, WBC counts are typically higher than in adults, and they gradually decrease over the first few days after birth. A value of 15,000 falls within the normal range for a newborn and is not indicative of a severe infection.
Choice B rationale:
A white blood cell count of 15,000 is considered a normal range for a newborn. Newborns have higher WBC counts as a natural response to the stress of birth and exposure to the outside environment. The immune system is still developing, and elevated WBC counts are normal during this period.
Choice C rationale:
Assuming there are no other indications of lab error, such as abnormal results in other tests, it would be premature to label the WBC count as a lab error. Additionally, healthcare professionals should always consider the overall clinical picture before assuming a lab error based on a single result.
Choice D rationale:
There is no immediate need to call the doctor based solely on the WBC count of 15,000. Medical decisions should be made in the context of the newborn's overall clinical condition, and a single lab result does not warrant an immediate call to the doctor.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"He is just cold”. is not the correct choice. While newborns can have cold hands and feet due to their immature thermoregulation, it would not explain persistent blue hands.
Choice B rationale:
"He may have been born with a heart problem”. is not the correct choice as it suggests a congenital heart defect. While cyanosis (bluish discoloration) can be associated with some heart problems, the hands alone being blue is less likely to be solely related to a heart issue.
Choice C rationale:
"The hands are always blue in a newborn”. is not the correct choice. While newborns may have bluish extremities (acrocyanosis) during the first few days after birth due to their developing circulatory system, persistent blue hands beyond this period would require further assessment.
Choice D rationale:
The correct choice is that "The circulation in his hands is not fully developed.”. Newborns have a developing circulatory system, and sometimes, their peripheral circulation takes some time to mature, leading to transient blue hands. However, if the blue color persists or worsens, it's essential to evaluate for any underlying issues.
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