A nurse is assessing a newborn 1 hour after birth.
The nurse recognizes that which of the following respiratory rates is within the expected reference range for a newborn?

Choice A rationale

Quickening is the sensation of fetal movement by the pregnant woman. It usually occurs between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation.

Choice B rationale

Hegar’s sign is a probable sign of pregnancy that is characterized by the compressibility and softening of the cervical isthmus, which is the portion of the cervix between the uterus and the vaginal portion of the cervix. This sign typically presents between the fourth and sixth week of pregnancy. Therefore, if the nurse identifies a probable sign indicating the softening of the lower uterine segment, it is likely that the nurse has observed Hegar’s sign.

Choice C rationale

Braxton Hicks contractions are intermittent uterine contractions that occur during pregnancy. They are not a sign of labor and do not lead to cervical dilation or effacement. Therefore, they would not indicate the softening of the lower uterine segment.

Choice D rationale

Ballottement is a technique of palpating a floating structure by bouncing it and feeling it rebound. In the context of pregnancy, it refers to the movement of the fetus when the uterus is tapped during a pelvic examination. This does not indicate the softening of the lower uterine segment.

Choice A rationale

Administering the insulin 30 minutes after breakfast is not recommended. Regular insulin should be administered before meals.

Choice B rationale

Administering the insulin at 0700 is not recommended. Regular insulin should be administered 30 to 45 minutes before a meal.

Choice C rationale

Administering the insulin at 0730 is recommended if breakfast is at 0800. Regular insulin should be administered 30 to 45 minutes before a meal. This is the correct answer.

Choice D rationale

Administering the insulin when the breakfast tray arrives is not recommended. Regular insulin should be administered 30 to 45 minutes before a meal.