You are assessing the baby and notice that their hands and feet are bluish-purple. You:
Don't do anything, this is a normal finding
Check the infant's 02 sat
Call the MD for referral
Put socks and mittens on the infant to keep them warm
The Correct Answer is B
A) Don't do anything, this is a normal finding:
While it's true that acrocyanosis (bluish-purple discoloration of the hands and feet) can be a normal finding in the first 24-48 hours of life due to immature circulation, it’s important to assess the severity of the condition and rule out more serious causes. Just ignoring it without assessing the infant’s oxygenation status could lead to missing a potential respiratory issue.
B) Check the infant's O2 sat:
The most appropriate action is to assess the infant’s oxygen saturation levels. Acrocyanosis is typically benign and resolves on its own, but persistent cyanosis or a drop in oxygen saturation could indicate a more serious issue, such as respiratory distress or congenital heart disease. A pulse oximeter is a non-invasive tool that can help determine whether the infant’s oxygenation is adequate. This would help guide further clinical decisions.
C) Call the MD for referral:
Calling the doctor should only be considered if the baby’s oxygen saturation levels are low, or if other concerning symptoms (like poor feeding, lethargy, or significant difficulty breathing) are present. If the O2 saturation is normal, there’s no immediate need for referral. The key is to assess first before escalating to the provider.
D) Put socks and mittens on the infant to keep them warm:
Although providing warmth can help with maintaining body temperature, simply putting socks and mittens on the baby is not sufficient to rule out respiratory issues or other causes of cyanosis. If the infant’s oxygen saturation is normal and the baby is otherwise stable, this may be appropriate. However, checking the O2 saturation first is the correct step to ensure that no underlying respiratory problems are contributing to the cyanosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The Babinski reflex is present in newborns and occurs when the sole of the foot is stroked from heel to toe. The infant's big toe dorsiflexes (moves upward) and the other toes fan out. This is a normal response in infants up to 12-24 months but is abnormal in older children and adults, where it may indicate neurological issues.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A) Keep the baby on his back to sleep:
Placing babies on their back to sleep is the most effective way to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends this practice. Babies should not sleep on their stomach or side because these positions increase the risk of suffocation. This position should be maintained until the baby is at least 1 year old, even though many parents may be encouraged to place babies on their tummies when they start rolling over on their own.
B) Keep the cord as dry as possible until it falls off:
It is important to keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry until it falls off, which typically happens between 1-3 weeks of life. Moisture can cause infection, so avoiding unnecessary exposure to water and keeping the stump exposed to air is essential for healing. The area should not be submerged in water until the stump falls off, and the diaper should be folded down so it doesn’t rub against it, promoting proper drying and healing.
C) Always keep the baby dressed and wrapped in 2 blankets when you go outside:
This is not an ideal practice. Overheating can be dangerous for newborns, as they have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature. Instead of wrapping the baby in two blankets, the baby should be dressed appropriately for the weather—usually in one extra layer than an adult would wear in the same conditions. This ensures the baby stays warm without the risk of overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS.
D) After your milk comes in your baby should have 3-4 wet or dirty diapers a day:
This information is inaccurate for a 2-day-old baby. After milk comes in (usually around day 3 or 4 postpartum), the baby should be producing at least 6-8 wet diapers a day and 3-4 dirty diapers by day 4 or 5. Fewer wet diapers or a decrease in bowel movements may indicate that the baby is not feeding effectively, and it is important to monitor this carefully. In the first few days, before the milk comes in, the baby might have fewer wet diapers, but by day 3-4, this is the standard for adequate hydration and nutrition.
E) Have the bulb syringe near the baby at all times:
Having a bulb syringe nearby is a good practice in case of respiratory distress. Newborns often have mucus in their airways, and a bulb syringe can help clear their nasal passages if they are having trouble breathing. While the baby should not be suctioned too frequently or aggressively, keeping a bulb syringe available can help manage mild congestion. Additionally, in the case of sudden breathing difficulties or choking, it’s important to be prepared.
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