A nurse is caring for a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and is being tested for group B streptococcus B-hemolytic (GBS). The client is multigravida and multipara with no history of GBS. She asks the nurse why the test was not conducted earlier in her pregnancy. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

Placing the infant on his back with legs extended is a recommended sleeping position for infants to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, it is not directly related to managing neonatal abstinence syndrome.

Choice B Reason:

Providing a stimulating environment would not be appropriate for an infant with NAS, as excessive stimulation can exacerbate symptoms such as irritability and tremors. A calm and quiet environment is preferable.

Choice C Reason:

Monitoring blood glucose levels every hour is not a routine practice for managing neonatal abstinence syndrome. While NAS can cause feeding difficulties, hypoglycemia is not typically a primary concern unless the infant is exhibiting specific symptoms.

Choice D Reason:

Initiating seizure precautions is important when caring for an infant with NAS because seizures can be a complication of withdrawal. Seizure precautions may include padding the crib, ensuring a safe environment, and being vigilant for signs of seizure activity.

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

"Limit visitors to your immediate family." This response is inappropriate. While limiting visitors to immediate family members can help control access to the newborn, it may not fully address security concerns. Some hospitals have specific visitor policies in place, but this instruction alone may not cover all aspects of newborn security.

Choice B Reason:

"Send the newborn to the nursery while you are sleeping." This statement is inappropriate. Sending the newborn to the nursery while the parents are sleeping may seem like a security measure, but it can actually increase the risk of infant abduction or mix-ups. Rooming-in with the newborn allows the parents to maintain constant supervision and bonding with their baby, which is important for security.

Choice C Reason:

"Remove your newborn's electronic monitoring band for bathing." This statement is inappropriate. Removing the electronic monitoring band for bathing can disrupt the tracking system used to ensure the newborn's security within the hospital. It's important to keep the monitoring band on the newborn at all times to accurately track their location and prevent unauthorized removal from the maternity unit.

Choice D Reason:

"Check identification badges of staff who enter your room." This statement is appropriate. Maintaining newborn security is crucial in a hospital setting to ensure the safety of the newborn. Checking identification badges of staff who enter the room helps verify that only authorized personnel are interacting with the newborn and reduces the risk of unauthorized individuals gaining access to the baby.