A new mother on the postpartum unit runs out of the room screaming that her newborn infant's crib is empty and the baby is missing.

Which action should the nurse take first?

Choice A rationale:

While it’s important to monitor for any adverse reactions following a vaccination, not all fevers are serious. Mild fever can be a common side effect of vaccinations and is usually not a cause for concern. However, if the child develops a high fever, or if the fever is accompanied by other severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or extreme lethargy, it should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

Choice B rationale:

There is no need to keep the child home from daycare following the Hib vaccine unless the child is feeling unwell or has other symptoms that warrant staying home. The Hib vaccine is not a live vaccine, so the child cannot transmit the vaccine strain to others.

Choice C rationale:

Applying a cool pack to the injection site can help reduce discomfort or swelling that may occur after the vaccination. This is a safe and effective method for managing minor side effects of vaccinations.

Choice D rationale:

Aspirin should not be given to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain. Instead, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to help manage any pain or fever following the vaccination, if approved by a healthcare provider. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package and consult with a healthcare provider if unsure.

Choice A rationale:

Discuss the character of labor from endogenous vs. exogenous oxytocin. While it is important to educate the client about the difference between endogenous (naturally occurring) and exogenous (administered) oxytocin, this information may not address the client's primary concern. The client is refusing the prescribed oxytocin infusion and wants a "natural" delivery. Therefore, discussing alternative ways to support her birth plan is more pertinent.

Choice B rationale:

Ask the healthcare provider to discuss the issue with the client. Involving the healthcare provider in the discussion is a reasonable step, but it should not be the first action taken. The nurse can initiate a conversation with the client to explore her concerns and preferences before escalating the issue to the healthcare provider.

Choice C rationale:

Discuss alternative ways to support the client's birth plan. This is the correct choice because it directly addresses the client's refusal of the oxytocin infusion and desire for a "natural" delivery. Exploring alternative methods for inducing or facilitating labor in a way that aligns with the client's birth plan is essential.

Choice D rationale:

Explain the indications for induction related to post-term pregnancy. Explaining the indications for induction is important for educating the client about the medical reasons behind the prescribed treatment. However, this information may not immediately address the client's refusal of the oxytocin infusion. The nurse should first explore the client's concerns and preferences regarding her birth plan.