A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a pre-term newborn who was born at 32 weeks of gestation.
Which of the following values indicates a potential complication of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?
Hematocrit 45%
Platelets 150,000/mm3
White blood cell count 25,000/mm3
Blood glucose 80 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is C
White blood cell count 25,000/mm3.
This indicates a potential complication of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which is the death of intestinal tissue in premature or sick newborns. A high white blood cell count can be a sign of infection or inflammation in the bowel, which are common features of NEC.
Choice A is wrong because hematocrit 45% is within the normal range for newborns.
Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
A low hematocrit can indicate blood loss or anemia, which can be complications of NEC, but a normal hematocrit does not rule out NEC.
Choice B is wrong because platelets 150,000/mm3 is also within the normal range for newborns.
Platelets are cells that help the blood clot. A low platelet count can indicate a consumption coagulopathy, which is a bleeding disorder that can occur in severe cases of NEC.
However, a normal platelet count does not exclude NEC.
Choice D is wrong because blood glucose 80 mg/dL is also within the normal range for newborns.
Blood glucose measures the amount of sugar in the blood.
A low blood glucose can indicate hypoglycemia, which can be caused by sepsis or other conditions that mimic NEC, but a normal blood glucose does not eliminate NEC.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Drinking enough water can help prevent dehydration, which can trigger preterm labor contractions.Dehydration can also cause low amniotic fluid levels, which can affect fetal growth and development.
Choice A is wrong because avoiding sexual intercourse until term is not necessary for most women at risk for preterm labor.Sexual activity does not cause preterm labor unless there are other complications, such as placenta previa or cervical insufficiency.
Choice C is wrong because lying down when feeling contractions may not stop preterm labor.If a woman has regular contractions that cause cervical change, she should seek medical attention as soon as possible.Lying down may also reduce blood flow to the uterus and placenta, which can affect fetal oxygenation.
Choice D is wrong because taking aspirin for pelvic pain is not recommended for pregnant women.Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding and affect fetal blood circulation.
Pelvic pain may be a sign of preterm labor or other complications, so it should be evaluated by a health care provider
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Pre-term newborns are at risk of apnea of prematurity, which is a pause in breathing for more than 20 seconds or less than 20 seconds with bradycardia or cyanosis.An apnea monitor can detect and alert the parents of any episodes of apnea and help them intervene promptly.
Choice A is wrong because breastfeeding is beneficial for pre-term newborns and can provide them with antibodies, nutrients, and bonding with the mother.Breastfeeding should be encouraged as soon as the newborn is medically stable and able to suck and swallow.
Choice C is wrong because keeping the newborn in a warm environment at all times can lead to overheating, dehydration, and increased metabolic rate.Pre-term newborns have difficulty regulating their body temperature and need to be dressed appropriately for the ambient temperature.They should also be monitored for signs of cold stress or heat stress.
Choice D is wrong because delaying immunizations until the newborn reaches term gestation can expose the newborn to preventable infections that ...
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