A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a newborn that is 4 hr old. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Bilirubin 18 mg/dL.
Hemoglobin 22 g/dL.
Blood glucose 50 mg/dL.
Platelets 200,000/mm³.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
This is the priority finding because a bilirubin level of 18 mg/dL in a 4-hour-old newborn is significantly elevated. High bilirubin levels in newborns can lead to jaundice, which can be harmful if not promptly addressed. Hyperbilirubinemia in newborns requires close monitoring and, in some cases, treatment with phototherapy.
Choice B rationale:
A hemoglobin level of 22 g/dL is within the normal range for a newborn and is not a priority concern at this time.
Choice C rationale:
A blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL is within the normal range for a newborn. While monitoring blood glucose levels is essential, it is not the priority in this situation.
Choice D rationale:
A platelet count of 200,000/mm³ is within the normal range for a newborn and does not require immediate action.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Back to sleep: While placing babies on their backs to sleep is essential for reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), it does not prevent flat spots. Instead, tummy time while the baby is awake helps balance the time spent on their back.
B. Take the baby for walks: Taking a baby for walks is beneficial for overall development and stimulation but does not directly prevent flat spots on the head.
C. Keep them awake most of the day: This is not a safe or recommended practice. Babies need sufficient sleep for proper growth and development.
D. Tummy time helps prevent flat spots by reducing the amount of time the baby spends lying on their back. It also strengthens neck, shoulder, and arm muscles, encouraging the baby to move their head more freely and develop motor skills.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An apical pulse of 130/min in a newborn is within the normal range. The normal heart rate for a newborn is generally between 110 to 160 beats per minute (bpm). As the newborn's heart rate falls within this range, the nurse should document it as an expected finding and continue routine monitoring.
Choice B rationale:
Calling the neonatologist to assess the newborn for an apical pulse of 130/min is not warranted as it is a normal finding. The nurse should only notify the neonatologist if there are abnormal vital signs or concerning clinical signs.
Choice C rationale:
Asking another nurse to verify the heart rate is unnecessary in this scenario. The nurse can independently measure the apical pulse and document the finding as long as it falls within the normal range for newborns.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing the newborn for transport to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is not indicated for a normal apical pulse rate. Transporting a newborn to the NICU is typically reserved for critical or unstable conditions. In this case, the normal heart rate of 130/min does not warrant NICU transport.
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