A nurse is assisting in the care of a newborn who is 72 hr old and is receiving treatment for neonatal abstinence syndrome.
Which of the following data collection findings should the nurse identify as requiring immediate follow- up? (Select all that apply.).
Blood pressure.
Gastrointestinal disturbances.
Skin color.
NAS score.
Temperature.
Oxygen saturation.
Central nervous system disturbances.
Correct Answer : B,D,F,H
Choice A reason
Blood pressure is not a priority finding for a newborn with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Blood pressure is usually normal or slightly elevated in NAS, and it is not a reliable indicator of the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Choice B reason
Gastrointestinal disturbances are a common and serious finding for a newborn with NAS. Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and poor weight gain. Projectile vomiting can also increase the risk of aspiration. This finding requires immediate follow-up and intervention.
Choice C reason
Skin color is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Acrocyanosis (bluish color of the hands and feet) is a normal finding in newborns and does not indicate hypoxia or poor circulation. It usually resolves within the first few days of life.
Choice D reason
NAS score is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. NAS score is a tool used to assess the severity of withdrawal symptoms and the need for pharmacological treatment. It is based on a set of clinical signs and symptoms that are scored at regular intervals. However, it is not a substitute for clinical judgment and individualized care. The NAS score alone does not determine the urgency of follow-up.
Choice E reason
Temperature is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Temperature may be slightly elevated or normal in NAS, and it is not a specific sign of infection or withdrawal. Temperature regulation is important for newborns, but it is not an immediate concern in this case.
Choice F reason
Oxygen saturation is a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Tachypnea (rapid breathing) and retractions (inward movement of the chest wall) are signs of respiratory distress, which can compromise oxygen delivery to the tissues and organs. Hypoxia (low oxygen level) can cause brain damage, organ failure, and death if not corrected promptly. This finding requires immediate follow-up and intervention.
Choice G reason
Central nervous system disturbances are a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Increased muscle tone, tremors, high-pitched cry, and seizures are signs of neurological dysfunction,which can indicate brain injury, bleeding, or infection. Seizures can also worsen hypoxia and metabolic acidosis. This finding requires immediate follow-up and intervention.
Choice H reason
Respiratory rate is not a priority finding for a newborn with NAS. Respiratory rate may be increased or normal in NAS, and it is not a specific sign of respiratory distress or infection. Respiratory rate should be monitored along with other vital signs.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Intermittent abdominal pain following passage of bloody mucus is not a sign of placenta previa, but rather of bloody show, which is a normal occurrence in late pregnancy as the cervix begins to dilate and efface.
Choice B reason:
Abdominal pain with minimal red vaginal bleeding is not a sign of placenta previa, but rather of abruptio placentae, which is a serious complication where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery.
Choice C reason:
A large amount of bright red vaginal bleeding without pain is a sign of placenta previa, which is a condition where the placenta covers part or all of the cervical opening. This can cause bleeding when the cervix dilates or contracts, especially in the third trimester. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Choice D reason:
Severe abdominal pain with increasing fundal height is not a sign of placenta previa, but rather of uterine rupture, which is a rare but life-threatening complication where the uterus tears open along the scar line from a previous cesarean delivery or other uterine surgery. This can cause severe bleeding, fetal distress, and shock.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
This is incorrect because formula-fed newborns typically have one or more stools per day, not every 3 days. Stooling less frequently than once a day may indicate constipation.
Choice B reason:
This is correct because breastfed newborns usually have two to three stools per day, which are soft and yellow. Breastfed babies may also have stools less frequently, even once every 10-14 days, as long as the stool is soft.
Choice C reason:
This is incorrect because newborns should be fed formula on demand, not on a strict schedule. The average feeding interval for formula-fed newborns is about 3 to 4 hours.
Choice D reason:
This is incorrect because newborns should be breastfed eight to 12 times per day, not five to seven times. Breastfeeding more frequently helps to establish milk supply and prevent engorgement. - Stanford Medicine.
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