A nurse is caring for a newborn who has a blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Encourage the mother to breastfeed the newborn.
Gavage feed 60 mL (2 oz) of glucose water.
Administer 10 mL of D5W via IV.
Recheck the glucose level in 2 hr.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Breastfeeding is the recommended first line of action for a newborn with a blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL, which is on the lower end of the normal range (normal range: 40-60 mg/dL for a newborn). Breast milk provides a natural source of glucose and other nutrients essential for the newborn's growth and development. It also facilitates bonding and has immunological benefits. Early initiation of breastfeeding helps to stabilize the blood glucose levels naturally.
Choice B reason:
Gavage feeding 60 mL of glucose water is not the first choice for managing borderline low blood glucose levels in a newborn. This method is typically reserved for infants who cannot feed orally due to medical conditions or prematurity. It is an invasive procedure and can be stressful for the newborn.
Choice C reason:
Administering 10 mL of D5W (5% dextrose in water) via IV is a treatment for hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels), not for borderline low levels like 40 mg/dL. This intervention is usually considered when blood glucose levels are significantly lower than the normal range and the infant is symptomatic or unable to tolerate oral feedings.
Choice D reason:
Rechecking the glucose level in 2 hours is a passive approach and may not be appropriate for a newborn with a blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL. Immediate action, such as feeding, is preferred to prevent potential hypoglycemia and its associated risks.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Naegele's Rule is used to estimate the expected delivery date (EDD) by adding 7 days and 9 months to the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) In this case, May 4th, 2018, is the first day of the LMP. Adding 7 days brings us to May 11th, and then adding 9 months brings us to February 11th, 2019, which is the estimated delivery date.
Choice B rationale:
This option is incorrect because it adds 9 months to the LMP without accounting for the additional 7 days, resulting in an inaccurate EDD.
Choice C rationale:
This option is incorrect because it only adds 9 months to the LMP without considering the 7 days, leading to an inaccurate EDD.
Choice D rationale:
This option is incorrect because it adds 9 months to the LMP without considering the 7 days, resulting in an inaccurate EDD.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Requesting a prescription for PRN aspirin is incorrect because aspirin is an antiplatelet agent and should not be combined with heparin without specific medical advice due to the increased risk of bleeding.
Choice B reason:
Massaging the injection site is not recommended as it can cause trauma to the tissue and increase the risk of bleeding, which is especially concerning in a patient with deep-vein thrombosis.
Choice C reason:
Instructing the client that they cannot breastfeed while receiving heparin is incorrect. Heparin does not pass into breast milk in significant amounts and is considered safe for use while breastfeeding.
Choice D reason:
Administer the injection in the client's abdomen. Heparin is typically administered subcutaneously in the abdomen to ensure proper absorption and minimize discomfort. Because it is an area with large amounts of subcutaneous fat
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