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:
The client is experiencing continuous abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, which are key signs of abruptio placentae. This condition occurs when the placenta prematurely separates from the uterine wall before the baby is born, leading to bleeding and potential fetal distress. The history of cocaine use can be a risk factor for abruptio placentae, as cocaine use may lead to vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow to the placenta.
Choice B rationale:
Hydatidiform mole is not likely in this case because it presents with symptoms such as vaginal bleeding and a "grape-like” mass on ultrasound. The continuous abdominal pain is not typical for a hydatidiform mole.
Choice C rationale:
Preterm labor is not the likely complication in this scenario because the client is at 38 weeks of gestation, which is considered full term. Preterm labor refers to labor that occurs before 37 weeks of gestation.
Choice D rationale:
Placenta previa is not the likely complication as it presents with painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester, and the abdominal pain described in the question suggests a different condition.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
"Retract the foreskin until you feel resistance." This advice is not recommended for newborns with an uncircumcised penis. The foreskin of most male babies doesn't yet pull back (retract) fully at birth, and forcing it back can cause pain, bleeding, and possible damage.
Choice B reason:
"Use a cotton swab to clean under the foreskin." This is not advisable for a newborn's uncircumcised penis. The foreskin is usually still attached to the glans and does not require any special cleaning inside. Using a cotton swab could potentially cause harm by forcing the foreskin back.
Choice C reason:
"Apply petroleum jelly to the foreskin." This instruction is more applicable to a circumcised penis during the healing process to prevent the penis from sticking to the diaper. For an uncircumcised penis, there's no need to apply petroleum jelly as part of regular care.
Choice D reason:
"Wash the penis once per day with soap and water." This is the correct care for an uncircumcised penis. Parents should gently wash the genital area with mild soap and water during bath time without retracting the foreskin.
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