A nurse in labor and delivery is caring for a client. Following delivery of the placenta, the nurse examines the umbilical cord. Which of the following vessels should the nurse expect to observe in the umbilical cord?

Choice A Reason:

Bilirubin 9 mg/dL is correct. A bilirubin level of 9 mg/dL in a newborn, especially at 4 hours old, is elevated and needs prompt attention. High bilirubin levels in newborns can be indicative of jaundice, and severe jaundice may lead to complications such as kernicterus. Monitoring and managing bilirubin levels are crucial to prevent potential neurologic damage.

Choice B Reason:

Hemoglobin 15 g/dL is incorrect. This hemoglobin level is within the normal range for a newborn. It's important to note that newborns often have higher hemoglobin levels shortly after birth, and this value is consistent with normal physiological ranges.

Choice C Reason:

Platelets 175,000/mm³ is incorrect. A platelet count of 175,000/mm³ is within the normal range for a newborn. There is no immediate concern based on this platelet count.

Choice D Reason:

Hematocrit 45% is incorrect. A hematocrit level of 45% is within the normal range for a newborn. Like hemoglobin, hematocrit levels can be higher in newborns shortly after birth, and this value falls within the expected range.

The correct answer is d.

A. Informing the client that the anesthetic effect will last for approximately 6 hours is not the nurse's responsibility. The anesthesia provider usually communicates this information to the client.

B. Administering a 500 mL bolus of 5% dextrose in water prior to induction is the correct action.

Although preloading with a 500–1,000 mL bolus of isotonic crystalloid (e.g., Lactated Ringer’s) is recommended to mitigate hypotension, dextrose‑containing solutions (like D5W) are not used for this preload.

C. Having the client stand at the bedside with her arms at her side is not necessary for the administration of epidural analgesia. The client is usually positioned sitting up or lying on her side during the procedure.

D. Before initiating epidural analgesia, you must establish a baseline fetal heart rate and uterine contraction pattern with at least 20–30 minutes of continuous EFM to ensure fetal well‑being and detect any decelerations or atypical patterns.