A nurse is assessing the newborn of a client who took a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) during pregnancy. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as an indication of withdrawal from an SSRI?

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 B. Massage the client's back.

A. Turning the client onto her left side may be a comfort measure, but it is not specifically associated with the gate control theory of pain. It may help improve blood flow and relieve pressure but does not directly engage the gate control mechanism.

B. Massage the client's back is consistent with the gate control theory of pain.

According to the gate control theory, non-painful input (such as massage) can close the "gate" to painful input, reducing the perception of pain. Massage stimulates large-diameter nerve fibers, which can inhibit the transmission of painful signals.

C. Encouraging the client to rest between contractions is a general comfort measure but is not directly related to the gate control theory of pain.

D. Administering prescribed analgesic medication is a pharmacological approach to pain management and is not specifically associated with the gate control theory. Medications can act on pain receptors but do not engage the gate control mechanism.