A nurse is caring for a patient immediately following the delivery of a stillborn fetus. What action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale
Applying firm pressure on the client’s suprapubic area is not part of the McRoberts maneuver. This action is more associated with the suprapubic pressure technique, which is another method used to manage shoulder dystocia.
Choice B rationale
The McRoberts maneuver involves having the client flex her hips against her abdomen. This is achieved by assisting the client in pulling her knees toward her abdomen.
Choice C rationale
Applying pressure to the client’s fundus is not part of the McRoberts maneuver and can be contraindicated as it may cause additional complications.

Choice D rationale
Moving the client onto their hands and knees is not part of the McRoberts maneuver. This position is more associated with the all-fours maneuver, also known as the Gaskin maneuver.

Choice A rationale: Swaddling the newborn with flexed extremities can provide a sense of security and help soothe the newborn. This is a common practice in managing neonates with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) as it can help reduce irritability and promote sleep.

Choice B rationale: Naloxone is not typically used in the treatment of NAS. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist and can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals. In a neonate with NAS due to maternal opioid use, naloxone can cause severe and immediate withdrawal.

Choice C rationale: Maintaining a low stimulation environment is crucial in managing neonates with NAS. These neonates are often hypersensitive to stimuli, and a quiet, dimly lit environment can help reduce irritability and promote sleep.

Choice D rationale: Breastfeeding is usually encouraged in mothers who are stable on their opioid replacement therapy, are not using illicit drugs, and have no other contraindications for breastfeeding. The benefits of breastfeeding include the passage of maternal antibodies and the promotion of mother-infant bonding.

Choice E rationale: The Ballard newborn screening is a tool used to estimate gestational age using physical and neuromuscular characteristics. It is typically performed shortly after birth and may not need to be performed each shift in a neonate with NAS.

Choice F rationale: Weighing the newborn daily is important in the management of NAS. Weight can provide information about feeding and hydration status, and any significant or sudden changes in weight can indicate a need for further evaluation.

Choice G rationale: Eye contact during feeding can promote bonding between the parent and the newborn. There is no need to avoid eye contact during feeding in a neonate with NAS.