A nurse is caring for a neonate in the neonatal intensive care unit.
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Nurses' Notes
1200:
The neonate is 3 days old. Lung sounds clear to auscultation. Frequent episodes of apnea, responds to tactile stimuli. Oxygen saturation 95% to 98% via nasal cannula. Neonate on radiant warmer.
Temperature 36.3° C (97.3° F)
Heart rate 158/min
Respiratory rate 70/min
Substernal retractions and nasal flaring noted. Orogastric (OG) tube placement verified. Continuous breast milk feedings via OG tube initiated 12 hr ago. The umbilical arterial catheter (UAC) site is clean, dry, and intact. Peripheral pulses 2+. Capillary refill brisk. Abdomen is soft, bowel sounds are present. Abdominal circumference increased by 1 cm (0.4 in) since the prior assessment.
Lung sounds clear to auscultation
Frequent episodes of apnea
responds to tactile stimuli
Temperature 36.3° C (97.3° F)
Heart rate 158/min
Respiratory rate 70/min
Substernal retractions and nasal flaring noted
Abdominal circumference increased by 1 cm (0.4 in) since the prior assessment
The Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","F","G","H"]
Frequent episodes of apnea, responds to tactile stimuli: Apnea in a neonate, especially one born preterm (at 34 weeks gestation), is not uncommon but should be carefully monitored. However, frequent apnea episodes may indicate an underlying respiratory issue, such as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) or an infection. Apnea that requires tactile stimuli to resolve should be followed up with further assessment and possibly intervention.
Substernal retractions and nasal flaring: These are signs of respiratory distress. Substernal retractions and nasal flaring indicate the neonate is working harder to breathe, which may point to respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) or other respiratory compromise. Close monitoring and follow-up are necessary to assess the neonate's respiratory status and oxygenation.
Respiratory rate of 70/min: This is on the higher end for a neonate and may indicate respiratory distress or compensation for oxygenation issues. Close monitoring is required.
Temperature of 36.3 °C (97.3 °F): While this temperature is within the normal range for a neonate, it is on the lower end of the spectrum. Neonates, especially preterm ones, are at risk for hypothermia. The neonate is on a radiant warmer, which suggests that there may still be concerns regarding temperature regulation. This needs to be monitored closely to ensure proper thermal regulation.
Increased abdominal circumference by 1 cm (0.4 in): An increase in abdominal circumference can be a sign of feeding intolerance, such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), or other gastrointestinal issues. It is important to continue monitoring for other signs of NEC or abdominal distension, which can indicate the need for intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Place a nonadherent dressing on the right knee abrasion: While minor abrasions should be cleaned and dressed, it is not a priority compared to managing the child's pain and fracture care.
B. Administer Ibuprofen 200 mg: Ibuprofen is an appropriate analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication to manage the child's pain (rated 5/10) and reduce swelling. Prompt pain relief is essential for the child’s comfort.
C. Apply ice packs to the fingers and along the right forearm: Applying ice helps reduce edema, pain, and inflammation at the fracture site. It also minimizes soft tissue damage.
D. Elevate the affected forearm with pillows: Elevating the arm helps reduce swelling and promotes venous return, which is essential for minimizing discomfort and preventing complications like compartment syndrome.
E. Review cast care instructions with the child's parents: Reviewing cast care is essential but should be done after the cast is applied, not at this stage of care.
F. Explain the cast application procedure to the child: This is important but not an immediate priority. The nurse should first address pain, swelling, and proper limb positioning before discussing the procedure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Exclude nutritional supplements from the list of medications the client reports: Incorrect. Nutritional supplements are medications and should be included in the medication reconciliation process.
B. Encourage the client to make his own list after he returns to his home: Incorrect. The nurse should be responsible for gathering the complete medication history upon admission, not relying on the client’s list from home.
C. Compare new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports: This is the correct step in medication reconciliation. The nurse needs to ensure that new medications are compatible with the client's current medications and review any changes.
D. Include any adverse effects of the medications the client might develop: Incorrect. Adverse effects are not part of the medication reconciliation process; the focus is on identifying all current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
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