A nurse is receiving a report on four newborns born in the past 12 hr. Which of the following newborns should the nurse assess first?

The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to:

Response 1: B) being higher than normal (fetal fibronectin: 0.09 mcg/mL is higher than the normal level of ≤ 0.05 mcg/mL).

Response 2: B) Nitrazine and ferning tests negative

Here's the

• Fetal Fibronectin: Fetal fibronectin is a protein found between the amniotic sac and the uterine lining. Levels greater than 0.05 mcg/mL (like 0.09 mcg/mL) indicate an increased risk of preterm labor.
• Nitrazine and Ferning Tests: Both tests being negative indicates that there is no rupture of membranes. Even though these tests are negative, the elevated fetal fibronectin level still indicates a risk for preterm birth.

So the completed sentence would be: The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to fetal fibronectin being higher than normal and Nitrazine and ferning tests negative.

This combination of findings suggests that preterm labor may be imminent despite the lack of membrane rupture. The elevated fetal fibronectin is a strong indicator of risk.

Based on the assessment findings, the nurse identifies that the client is at greatest risk for developing:

1. Postpartum infection
2. Hemorrhage

Here's the

• Postpartum infection: The client has a history of prolonged rupture of membranes and is experiencing a moderate amount of lochia rubra, both of which increase the risk of infection. Additionally, she reports feeling weak, fatigued, and has a temperature of 38.5°C (101.3°F), which are signs of a possible infection.
• Hemorrhage: The moderate amount of lochia rubra and a boggy fundus above the umbilicus indicate that the client may be at risk for postpartum hemorrhage. The provider's prescription for administering oxytocin if needed also suggests a concern for uterine atony, which can lead to hemorrhage.