Which information would the nurse include when teaching a new mother about the difference between pathologic and physiologic jaundice?
Physiologic jaundice results in kernicterus.
Pathologic jaundice appears within 24 hours after birth.
Both are treated with exchange transfusions of maternal O-blood.
Physiologic jaundice requires transfer to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Kernicterus, which is brain damage caused by excessive unconjugated bilirubin deposits, is a severe complication primarily associated with pathologic jaundice, not physiologic jaundice. Physiologic jaundice is common and self-limiting because bilirubin levels usually peak below the critical thresholds needed to breach the blood-brain barrier.
Choice B rationale
Pathologic jaundice is defined by its early onset, appearing within the first 24 hours after birth, which is a key distinguishing feature. This rapid rise in bilirubin often indicates an underlying condition, such as hemolytic disease of the newborn, that requires urgent investigation and treatment to prevent complications.
Choice C rationale
Exchange transfusion is a severe intervention, occasionally used to treat critically high bilirubin levels associated with pathologic jaundice, especially in cases of Rh or ABO incompatibility. Physiologic jaundice is typically treated with non-invasive phototherapy and never requires such an aggressive procedure.
Choice D rationale
Physiologic jaundice is a benign, transient condition that affects most newborns and does not require transfer to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Treatment, if needed, is usually simple phototherapy, which can often be managed on a regular maternity unit or even at home.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A child with a diagnosed latex sensitivity, especially one with a history of myelomeningocele which carries a high risk, should absolutely wear medical alert identification. This ensures that emergency medical personnel and others are immediately aware of the allergy to prevent exposure to potentially life-threatening latex products.
Choice B rationale
It is crucial to inform all caregivers, including school nurses, teachers, and daycare providers, about the child's latex allergy. This allows them to implement proper avoidance strategies in their respective environments and recognize early signs of a reaction, ensuring the child's safety outside the home.
Choice C rationale
The statement that a product's label always indicates whether it is latex-free is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching. Many items contain "hidden" latex, and labeling may not be mandatory or always comprehensive, requiring parents to exercise extreme caution and directly inquire about product composition.
Choice D rationale
Complete avoidance of all contact with products containing natural rubber latex is the only definitive way to prevent an allergic reaction in a sensitized child. Exposure, even to airborne particles from latex-containing materials, can trigger reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is ["150"]
Explanation
Step 1 is to convert the child's weight from pounds to kilograms:. 33 pounds ÷ 2.2 kg/pound = 15 kg.
Step 2 is to calculate the total milliliters to be transfused per hour using the ordered rate:. 15 kg × 10 mL/kg/hour = 150 mL/hour. The nurse should transfuse the platelets at a rate of 150 milliliters per hour.
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