A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a newborn who is 24 hr old. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Hemoglobin 12 g/dL.
Glucose 50 mg/dL.
Bilirubin 4 mg/dL.
Platelets 200,000/mm³.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: A. Hemoglobin 12 g/dL.
Choice A reason:
Hemoglobin levels in newborns are expected to be significantly higher than in adults due to the physiological adaptation to life outside the womb. The normal range for a newborn’s hemoglobin is approximately 14 to 24 g/dL1234. A level of 12 g/dL is below the expected range and could indicate anemia or other underlying conditions that may require further investigation and intervention by the healthcare provider.
Choice B reason:
The glucose level in a newborn can vary, especially within the first few hours after birth. Normal blood glucose levels for a newborn 1 to 2 hours old can be as low as 25 mg/dL and can rise to adult levels (60-100 mg/dL) within the first few days5. A glucose level of 50 mg/dL in a 24-hour-old newborn falls within the acceptable range and would not typically require reporting to the provider unless accompanied by symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Choice C reason:
Bilirubin levels in newborns can be elevated due to the normal breakdown of fetal hemoglobin as the baby’s liver matures. Normal bilirubin levels for a newborn can range from 1.0 to 12.0 mg/dL6. A bilirubin level of 4 mg/dL is within the normal range for a 24-hour-old newborn and is not typically a cause for concern unless there are signs of jaundice or other symptoms.
Choice D reason:
The normal platelet count for a newborn ranges from 150,000 to 450,000/mm³7. A platelet count of 200,000/mm³ is well within the normal range for a newborn and would not need to be reported to the healthcare provider.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client's statement, "I will check the identification badge of anyone who removes my baby from our room,” indicates an understanding of newborn safety. This statement shows the client's awareness of the importance of verifying the identity of anyone handling their baby before allowing them to be taken out of the room. Checking identification badges helps ensure that only authorized personnel, such as nurses or hospital staff, are allowed to handle the newborn, reducing the risk of unauthorized individuals taking the baby.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect and does not demonstrate an understanding of newborn safety. Including a photo of the baby along with public birth announcements to social media can compromise the baby's security and privacy. It may expose sensitive information about the baby's location and identity, making the baby vulnerable to potential risks.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect as it poses a safety risk to the newborn. Allowing the baby to sleep on the bed when the client is in the shower increases the risk of falls or suffocation. The baby should always be placed in a safe sleep environment, such as a crib or bassinet, to minimize the risk of accidents.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is incorrect and does not reflect an understanding of newborn safety. Nurses should not carry the baby in their arms to the nursery. Instead, they should use a crib or an infant carrier to transport the baby safely.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This finding may indicate a neurological problem or an issue with the baby's ability to feed, which can lead to inadequate nutrition and hydration. It's essential for the newborn to establish good feeding patterns early on
Choice B rationale:
Blue coloring of the hands and feet, also known as acrocyanosis, is a common and normal finding in newborns. It results from the immaturity of the peripheral circulation and usually resolves on its own without any intervention.
Choice C rationale:
A soft, edematous area on the scalp, also known as caput succedaneum, is a common finding following vacuum-assisted delivery and typically resolves without intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Facial edema is another common finding in newborns, especially after vacuum-assisted deliveries. It is typically a transient and self-resolving condition that does not require immediate intervention or reporting to the provider.
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