A nurse in the newborn unit is caring for several infants.
Which of the following situations requires the nurse's immediate attention and intervention?
A newborn who is 24 hours post-delivery and has not voided
A newborn who is 18 hours post-delivery and has acrocyanosis
A newborn who is 12 hours post-delivery and has a temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F)
A newborn who is 24 hours post-delivery and has not passed meconium
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
A newborn typically begins to void within 24 hours after birth, so not voiding within this time frame is not immediately concerning.
Choice B rationale
Acrocyanosis, or bluish discoloration of the hands and feet, is common in newborns, especially within the first few hours after birth. It is a normal finding and does not require immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale
A temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F) is within the normal range for a newborn. Therefore, this does not require immediate attention.
Choice D rationale
Newborns typically pass meconium, the first stool, within 24 to 48 hours after birth. If a newborn has not passed meconium within 24 hours, it could indicate a problem such as meconium ileus, a complication of cystic fibrosis, or other conditions that might obstruct the bowel. This situation requires immediate attention and intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Fundus at umbilicus is expected 4 hours postpartum, indicating normal uterine involution. No abnormal bleeding or uterine atony is implied, so it’s not a priority concern.
Choice B rationale: Deep tendon reflexes 4+ are hyperactive and signal increased neuromuscular irritability, placing the client at high risk for seizures due to preeclampsia. Immediate magnesium sulfate therapy may be required.
Choice C rationale: Saturated pad in 30 minutes suggests heavy lochia but is not yet classified as hemorrhage. Requires monitoring, but seizure risk from preeclampsia is more immediately life-threatening.
Choice D rationale: Approximated episiotomy edges indicate proper healing and no infection or dehiscence. This is a normal finding and does not require urgent intervention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Elevating the client’s legs is not the first action to take. While it can help with circulation, it does not directly address the issue of late decelerations.
Choice B rationale
Administering oxygen using a nonrebreather mask can be beneficial as it can increase the amount of oxygen available to the fetus. However, it is not the first action to take.
Choice C rationale
Placing the client in the lateral position is the correct action. This position can help improve placental blood flow and potentially improve the oxygen supply to the fetus.
Choice D rationale
Increasing the rate of maintenance IV infusion is not the first action to take. While it can help maintain hydration and blood pressure, it does not directly address the issue of late decelerations.
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.