A nurse is providing care to a client who is immunocompromised.
Which of the following should the nurse identify as a possible source of infection?

Choice A rationale:

Hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia refers to an elevated level of calcium in the blood. It is not typically a concern in a newborn, and monitoring for hypercalcemia is not necessary in this context. The infant's weight and maternal diabetes are more relevant factors to consider.

Choice B rationale:

Hypobilirubinemia. Hypobilirubinemia implies a low level of bilirubin in the blood, which is not a common concern in newborns, especially in the context of a newborn's weight and maternal diabetes. Monitoring for hyperbilirubinemia, which can lead to jaundice, would be more appropriate.

Choice C rationale:

Hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a significant concern in newborns of diabetic mothers. Newborns born to diabetic mothers are at increased risk of hypoglycemia due to the abrupt cessation of the continuous glucose supply from the mother's bloodstream after birth. Monitoring the newborn's blood glucose levels is crucial in this case.

Choice D rationale:

Decreased RBC. Monitoring for decreased red blood cell (RBC) counts is not typically a primary concern in a newborn, especially one born to a diabetic mother. Hypoglycemia, which can be a result of maternal diabetes, poses a more immediate and significant threat to the newborn's well-being.

Choice A rationale:

Performing intermittent external electronic fetal monitoring is not the best choice in this situation. The client’s condition, which includes severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, rigid and tender abdomen, and late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, suggests a possible placental abruption. In such a case, continuous fetal monitoring is required to closely monitor the fetal heart rate and contractions.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring vital signs at least every 15 min is necessary. The client’s blood pressure has dropped from 110/68 mm Hg to 95/59 mm Hg within 15 minutes. This could indicate hypovolemia due to blood loss. Regular monitoring can help detect changes early and initiate appropriate interventions.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client in a supine position is not recommended. This position can exacerbate supine hypotensive syndrome, which occurs when the gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return and cardiac output. A side-lying position would be more appropriate.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining a type and crossmatch is crucial. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible placental abruption, which can lead to significant blood loss. Having blood available for transfusion can be lifesaving.

Choice E rationale:

Measuring blood loss by weighing pads can provide an objective assessment of blood loss. This can help guide treatment decisions, including the need for blood transfusion.

Choice F rationale:

Inserting a large-bore IV catheter is necessary in this situation. It allows for rapid fluid and blood replacement if needed. Given the client’s symptoms and the potential for significant blood loss with placental abruption, this intervention is appropriate.