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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should first massage the client's fundus to address the excessive vaginal bleeding. Massaging the fundus helps the uterus contract and prevents further bleeding. Excessive postpartum bleeding may indicate uterine atony, which is a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should apply gentle pressure to the fundus to promote uterine contractions and reduce bleeding.
Choice A rationale:
Elevating the client's legs to a 30° angle (Trendelenburg position) is not the priority action in this situation. Fundal massage takes precedence because it directly addresses the cause of the excessive bleeding. While Trendelenburg position might be used in some situations to increase blood flow to vital organs, it is not the first-line intervention for postpartum bleeding.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority action for excessive vaginal bleeding. While monitoring urine output is essential, the immediate concern is controlling the bleeding by massaging the fundus.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating an infusion of oxytocin may be indicated if fundal massage alone is insufficient to control bleeding. However, massaging the fundus should be the first action taken to promote uterine contractions. Oxytocin can be administered afterward, if needed, under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
"Retract the foreskin until you feel resistance." This advice is not recommended for newborns with an uncircumcised penis. The foreskin of most male babies doesn't yet pull back (retract) fully at birth, and forcing it back can cause pain, bleeding, and possible damage.
Choice B reason:
"Use a cotton swab to clean under the foreskin." This is not advisable for a newborn's uncircumcised penis. The foreskin is usually still attached to the glans and does not require any special cleaning inside. Using a cotton swab could potentially cause harm by forcing the foreskin back.
Choice C reason:
"Apply petroleum jelly to the foreskin." This instruction is more applicable to a circumcised penis during the healing process to prevent the penis from sticking to the diaper. For an uncircumcised penis, there's no need to apply petroleum jelly as part of regular care.
Choice D reason:
"Wash the penis once per day with soap and water." This is the correct care for an uncircumcised penis. Parents should gently wash the genital area with mild soap and water during bath time without retracting the foreskin.
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