A nurse is preparing to collect a blood specimen from a newborn via a heel stick. Identify the sequence of steps the nurse should follow. (Move the steps into the box on the right, placing them in the order of performance. Use all the steps.)
Confirm the newborn's identity.
Cleanse the site with an antiseptic.
Pierce the newborn's heel.
Apply gentle pressure to the site with dry gauze.
Warm the newborn's heel
The Correct Answer is A,E,B,C,D
Proper procedure for a heel stick includes:
A) Confirming the newborn's identity before any procedure. the nurse should confirm the newborn's identity by checking the identification band and asking the mother or caregiver to verify the name and date of birth.
E) The nurse should warm the newborn's heel by placing a warm compress or a heel warmer on the site for 3 to 5 minutes. This will increase blood flow and reduce pain.
B) Cleansing the site with an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection. the nurse should cleanse the site with an antiseptic, such as alcohol or chlorhexidine, and let it air dry. The nurse should avoid using iodine, as it can interfere with some laboratory tests.
C) The nurse should pierce the newborn's heel with a sterile lancet, making sure to avoid the central area of the heel, where there are more nerves and bones. The nurse should use a single-use device that retracts automatically after use to prevent needlestick injuries.
D) The nurse should apply gentle pressure to the site with dry gauze to facilitate blood flow and collect the specimen in the appropriate container. The nurse should avoid squeezing or milking the site, as this can cause hemolysis or tissue damage.
E) The nurse should label the specimen with the newborn's name, date of birth, date and time of collection, and type of test. The nurse should also document the procedure in the newborn's chart, noting any difficulties or complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A) Incorrect - Applying oxygen is not the priority action in the case of excessive vaginal bleeding and a boggy uterus. Oxygen therapy would be appropriate if there were signs of respiratory distress or decreased oxygen saturation, but it does not directly address the primary concern of uterine atony and bleeding.
B) Incorrect - Administering methylergonovine might be appropriate, but the priority is to address the uterine atony with fundal massage first. Fundal massage helps stimulate uterine contractions and control bleeding, which is crucial in this scenario.
C) Incorrect - Encouraging the client to empty her bladder is important, but it is not the first action to take in the case of excessive bleeding and uterine atony. Immediate intervention to control the bleeding takes precedence.
D) Correct - Initiating fundal massage is the priority action in this situation. A boggy uterus with excessive vaginal bleeding indicates uterine atony, which is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention to prevent further bleeding.
Fundal massage helps the uterus contract and control bleeding. Addressing uterine atony is critical to prevent further hemorrhage and stabilize the client's condition.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect- The water heater temperature should be set to 49.4°C (120°F) or below to prevent scalding. The given temperature is slightly too high.
B) Incorrect- Soft bumper pads in cribs can pose a suffocation risk and are not recommended.
C) Correct - Washing the newborn's face with a warm, soapy washcloth is a safe way to cleanse the baby's face. Harsh chemicals or strong soaps should be avoided.
D) Incorrect- Pillows should not be placed under a newborn's head during naps to reduce the risk of suffocation. The baby's sleep environment should be free of soft bedding.
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