A nurse is assisting with the care of a newborn who was born at 39 weeks of gestation and is 36 hr old.

Assessment

Fontanels soft and flat

Head molded with caput succedaneum

Eyes symmetric, no discharge, sclera yellow Mucous membranes dry

Abdomen soft and rounded, bowel sounds present x 4 quadrants

Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the RN7 Select all that apply.

A. Elevated blood pressure is typically associated with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia rather than hyperemesis gravidarum. In hyperemesis, the significant fluid loss through protracted vomiting more commonly leads to hypovolemia and a subsequent decrease in systemic blood pressure. While compensatory tachycardia may occur, hypertension is not a direct scientific expectation for this clinical condition.

B. Leukopenia, which is a decrease in the white blood cell count, is not a typical finding in clients suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum. Hemoconcentration caused by severe dehydration may actually result in a relative increase in various laboratory values, including hematocrit and occasionally white cell counts. There is no physiological mechanism within this disorder that causes the bone marrow suppression required for leukopenia.

C. Hydramnios, or excessive amniotic fluid volume, is generally associated with fetal anomalies or maternal diabetes rather than severe vomiting. Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by a state of maternal fluid volume deficit rather than an excess of amniotic fluid. In severe, untreated cases, maternal dehydration might actually lead to decreased placental perfusion and a potential reduction in amniotic fluid.

D. Ketonuria is a critical finding in hyperemesis gravidarum that indicates the body has shifted to an anaerobic metabolic state. Because the client cannot retain sufficient carbohydrates for energy, the body begins catabolizing adipose tissue to produce fuel, resulting in the accumulation of ketone bodies. The presence of these ketones in the urine confirms that the client is experiencing metabolic starvation and requires immediate intervention.

A) Incorrect- Using a breast pump can actually help relieve breast engorgement by expressing excess milk, so this advice is not appropriate.
B) Incorrect- Applying ice packs to the breasts can decrease milk production and might not provide as much relief as other interventions.
C) Incorrect- Wearing a supportive, well-fitting bra is a good recommendation, but it might not provide enough relief for breast engorgement on its own.
D) Correct - Applying purified lanolin to the breasts can help soothe and moisturize the nipples, making breastfeeding more comfortable and providing relief from breast engorgement.