A nurse is collecting data from a newborn. Which of the following anatomical landmarks should the nurse use to measure chest circumference?
Sternal notch.
Nipple line.
Lower ribcage border.
Axillae.
The Correct Answer is B
The nurse should use the lower ribcage border to measure chest circumference.
Choice A rationale:
The sternal notch is not an appropriate landmark for measuring chest circumference. It is a notch at the top of the sternum and not indicative of chest circumference.
Choice B rationale:
When measuring the chest circumference of a newborn, the correct anatomical landmark to use is the nipple line. This method ensures that the measurement is taken at a consistent and reproducible location across different individuals, providing an accurate assessment of the chest size relative to growth and development standards. It's important to position the measuring tape at the level of the nipples, encircling the chest at its largest point, which typically aligns with the nipple line.
Choice C rationale:
The lower ribcage border is also not suitable as it may vary significantly with respiratory movements and is not a stable landmark for consistent measurements.
Choice D rationale:
The axillae (armpits) are not used as a landmark for measuring chest circumference. It is not a standardized anatomical point for this purpose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Reporting the client's weight to the provider is not a priority in this situation. While weight is important, the immediate concern is the newborn's respiratory distress and the acidosis indicated by the blood gases.
Choice B rationale:
Selecting diagnostic studies for the primary health care is not the nurse's role. The primary health care provider will determine which diagnostic studies are needed based on the newborn's clinical presentation and assessment findings.
Choice C rationale:
Checking brachial pulses for the client's respiratory status is the appropriate action. In a newborn with respiratory distress, assessing peripheral perfusion, including brachial pulses, is crucial to monitor the circulation and oxygenation of tissues.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An apical pulse of 130/min in a newborn is within the normal range. The normal heart rate for a newborn is generally between 110 to 160 beats per minute (bpm). As the newborn's heart rate falls within this range, the nurse should document it as an expected finding and continue routine monitoring.
Choice B rationale:
Calling the neonatologist to assess the newborn for an apical pulse of 130/min is not warranted as it is a normal finding. The nurse should only notify the neonatologist if there are abnormal vital signs or concerning clinical signs.
Choice C rationale:
Asking another nurse to verify the heart rate is unnecessary in this scenario. The nurse can independently measure the apical pulse and document the finding as long as it falls within the normal range for newborns.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing the newborn for transport to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is not indicated for a normal apical pulse rate. Transporting a newborn to the NICU is typically reserved for critical or unstable conditions. In this case, the normal heart rate of 130/min does not warrant NICU transport.
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