A nurse is assessing a newborn who was exposed to cocaine in utero. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Hypotonicity
Decreased startle response
High-pitched cry
Increased head circumference
The Correct Answer is C
A newborn who was exposed to cocaine in utero may exhibit a high-pitched cry as a result of central nervous system irritability. Other possible findings may include hypertonicity, exaggerated startle response, and decreased head circumference. Hypotonicity is not a typical finding in a newborn exposed to cocaine in utero.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The purpose of bathing the newborn before initiating skin-to-skin contact is to decrease the risk of transmission of the virus from the mother to the newborn. Instructing the client to stop taking the antiretroviral medications at 32 weeks of gestation is incorrect as these medications should be taken throughout pregnancy to decrease the risk of transmission to the fetus.
Using a fetalscalp electrode during labor and delivery is also not an appropriate action as it increases the risk of transmission of the virus to the newborn. Administering a pneumococcal immunization to the newborn within 4 hours following birth is not specific to HIV positive newborns and is not related to preventing transmission of the virus.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Magnesium sulfate is a medication used to prevent and treat seizures in clients with preeclampsia and eclampsia. It is also used to stop preterm labor. However, magnesium sulfate can cause a variety of side effects, including decreased reflexes, which can be a sign of magnesium toxicity. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to monitor the client for signs of toxicity.
Option A is incorrect because a decrease in the frequency of contractions is a desired effect of magnesium sulfate when it is used to stop preterm labor.
Option B is also incorrect because although a blood pressure of 150/100 mm Hg is elevated, it is not an unexpected finding in a client with preeclampsia, and it may actually be considered an improvement if the client's blood pressure was previously higher.
Option D is incorrect because a urinary output of 35 mL/hr is within the normal range for an adult.

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