A nurse is reinforcing teaching about foot care with a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

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.

The correct answer is: c. The AP pulls the pinna up and back.

Choice A reason: The AP inserting the probe with a straight, forward motion is not the correct technique for tympanic temperature measurement. The ear canal does not run straight forward into the head; instead, it curves slightly. Inserting the probe straight forward could potentially damage the ear canal or eardrum and would not provide an accurate temperature reading.

Choice B reason: Pointing the probe posteriorly is also incorrect. The tympanic membrane is located at the end of the ear canal, and the probe should be directed towards it. However, the probe should be angled slightly downward and toward the jawline, not straight back, to align with the ear canal and ensure an accurate reading.

Choice C reason: Pulling the pinna up and back is the correct method for adults and children over one year old. This action straightens the ear canal, allowing the thermometer’s sensor to get a clear path to the tympanic membrane, which is necessary for an accurate temperature reading. For infants, the correct method is to pull the earlobe straight back.

Choice D reason: The AP positioning the client facing her does not directly relate to the technique of measuring tympanic temperature. While it may be necessary for the AP to see the client’s ear, it is not an indication of understanding the correct procedure for tympanic temperature measurement.