A nurse is assessing a newborn of a client who reported methadone use during pregnancy. What manifestations should the nurse expect the newborn to exhibit?

Choice A rationale
A pudendal nerve block is not typically used for postpartum perineal pain management. It is more commonly used during labor to relieve pain in the perineum and vagina.
Choice B rationale
While hydrogel pads can provide cooling relief, they are not typically used for third-degree perineal lacerations. These types of lacerations often require more intensive interventions.
Choice C rationale

Applying a warm pack to the perineum can help with discomfort, but it is not the primary intervention for a third-degree perineal laceration.
Choice D rationale
Witch hazel pads are often recommended for postpartum perineal care. They can provide relief from soreness, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Choice A rationale: A positive Coombs test indicates that the newborn has antibodies against his own red blood cells, which can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition can cause severe anemia and jaundice, which can lead to complications such as kernicterus if not treated promptly.

Choice B rationale: The newborn’s glucose level is within the normal range (40 to 60 mg/dL), so this finding does not require immediate follow-up.

Choice C rationale: The yellow color of the sclera indicates jaundice, which can be a sign of hyperbilirubinemia. This condition can lead to complications such as kernicterus if bilirubin levels become too high.

Choice D rationale: The absence of meconium stool in a 36-hour-old newborn is unusual, as most newborns pass meconium within the first 24 to 48 hours after birth. This could indicate a problem such as meconium ileus or Hirschsprung disease, which would require further evaluation.

Choice E rationale: The head assessment finding of caput succedaneum is a common and typically harmless condition in newborns caused by pressure on the head during delivery. It does not require immediate follow-up.

Choice F rationale: The newborn’s heart rate is slightly elevated (normal range for a newborn is 120-160 beats per minute). This could be a response to factors such as fever, pain, or distress, and should be reported to the provider.

Choice G rationale: The newborn’s respiratory rate is also elevated (normal range for a newborn is 30-60 breaths per minute). This could be a sign of respiratory distress and should be reported to the provider.

Choice H rationale: Dry mucous membranes can be a sign of dehydration, which can occur if the newborn is not feeding well or is losing too much fluid, for example, through excessive sweating due to fever. This should be reported to the provider.