A 42-week gestation baby has been admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. At delivery, thick green amniotic fluid was noted. Which of the following actions by the nurse is most critical at this time?
Ophthalmic assessment to check for conjunctival irritation.
Rectal temperature to assess for septic hyperthermia.
Bath to remove meconium-stained fluid from the skin.
Respiratory evaluation to monitor for respiratory distress.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While conjunctival irritation could occur from exposure to irritants, it is not a primary concern in this case. Respiratory complications take precedence due to the risk of aspiration from meconium-stained fluid.
Choice B rationale
Rectal temperature assessment for hyperthermia is important but not critical in the immediate scenario. Respiratory distress monitoring is more urgent due to the association with meconium aspiration syndrome.
Choice C rationale
Bathing to remove meconium-stained fluid minimizes infection risk. However, respiratory assessment is more critical due to the severe pulmonary complications associated with meconium aspiration.
Choice D rationale
Meconium-stained amniotic fluid increases the risk of aspiration, leading to respiratory distress. Early respiratory evaluation prevents hypoxia, pulmonary hypertension, or pneumonitis, which are serious complications in neonates.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Preterm neonates lack developed mechanisms to shiver for thermogenesis, relying instead on non-shivering thermogenesis primarily through brown fat metabolism, which is underdeveloped in preterm infants.
Choice B rationale
The fetal position does not significantly affect heat retention in preterm neonates, as their thermoregulatory mechanisms depend on adequate fat stores and skin coverage.
Choice C rationale
Blood vessels in preterm neonates are closer to the skin's surface, increasing heat loss due to greater exposure and lack of insulating subcutaneous fat.
Choice D rationale
Preterm neonates have minimal body fat, impeding insulation and heat retention, leading to rapid heat loss, necessitating external warming measures like incubators or radiant warmers.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Postpartum depression does not resolve without intervention. It requires medical or psychological treatment to address underlying hormonal, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to the condition.
Choice B rationale
Postpartum depression is distinct from baby blues, which are transient and resolve without treatment. PPD involves more severe symptoms requiring medical or psychological intervention for effective management.
Choice C rationale
Postpartum depression is not limited to older Caucasian women. It affects women of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds, influenced by hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors.
Choice D rationale
Postpartum depression is characterized by severe anxiety, irritability, and panic attacks, distinguishing it from baby blues. These symptoms interfere with daily functioning and require medical or psychological treatment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
