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 A
Explanation
A) Correct - Monitoring for infection is an appropriate nursing intervention for a client whose membranes have ruptured, as there is an increased risk of infection after the amniotic sac has ruptured for an extended period.
B) Incorrect- Positioning the client supine is not generally recommended for a client in labor, especially if the client's membranes have ruptured.
C) Incorrect- Obtaining consent for a cesarean birth is not indicated solely based on the information provided.
D) Incorrect- Preparing for a forceps delivery is not indicated solely based on the information provided.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect- Applying ointment to the skin during phototherapy is typically avoided as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the therapy.
B) Incorrect- Giving distilled water after feedings is not a typical intervention for phototherapy.
C) Correct - Repositioning the newborn every 2 to 3 hours is important to ensure adequate exposure of the skin to the phototherapy lights and to prevent pressure points.
D) Incorrect- Monitoring blood glucose levels is not a standard intervention during phototherapy unless there are specific indications for doing so.
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