A macrosomic infant is born after a difficult forceps-assisted delivery.
After stabilization, the infant is weighed, and the birth weight is 4550 g (9 lbs, 6 ounces). The nurse’s most appropriate action is to:
Leave the infant in the room with the mother.
Take the infant immediately to the nursery.
Perform a gestational age assessment to determine whether the infant is large for gestational age.
Monitor blood glucose levels frequently and observe closely for signs of hypoglycemia.
The Correct Answer is D
choice D. Monitor blood glucose levels frequently and observe closely for signs of hypoglycemia. This is because a macrosomic infant (a newborn who’s much larger than average) is at risk of developing low blood sugar levels after birth, especially if the mother has diabetes. Hypoglycemia can cause neurological damage in the newborn, so it is important to detect and treat it promptly.
Choice A is wrong because leaving the infant in the room with the mother without monitoring the blood glucose levels may miss signs of hypoglycemia and delay treatment.
Choice B is wrong because taking the infant immediately to the nursery may separate the infant from the mother and interfere with breastfeeding, which can help prevent hypoglycemia.
Choice C is wrong because performing a gestational age assessment to determine whether the infant is large for gestational age is not urgent and does not address the risk of hypoglycemia.
Normal ranges for blood glucose levels in term infants are 2.6 mmol/L or higher at any time. A blood glucose level of 2.5 mmol/L or less is considered hypoglycemic.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Give small amounts of favorite fluids frequently to prevent dehydration.
Dehydration is a common complication of upper respiratory tract infections in infants, especially if they have a fever. Giving small amounts of fluids frequently can help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
Some additional information about the other choices are:
Choice A is wrong because tepid water baths are not recommended for fever reduction. They can cause shivering, which increases heat production and can raise the
temperature further. Instead, antipyretics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given as prescribed.
Choice B is wrong because food intake may be decreased due to poor appetite, difficulty breathing, or sore throat. Forcing food intake can cause vomiting or aspiration. Fluid intake is more important than caloric intake during an acute infection.
Choice C is wrong because heavy clothing can increase heat retention and discomfort. The infant should be dressed in light clothing and the room temperature should be comfortable.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
The parents should notify the physician if the infant has a temperature above 37.7° C (100° F), new frequent coughing, or turning blue or bluer
than normal. These are signs of infection, respiratory distress, or cyanosis, which could indicate complications after cardiac surgery.
Choice A is wrong because a respiratory rate of 36 breaths/minute at rest is within the normal range for an infant.
Choice B is wrong because an appetite slowly increasing is a positive sign of recovery and does not require immediate attention.
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