A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a newborn who is 24 hr old. Which of the following findings requires intervention?
Weight loss of 3%
Voided one time since birth
Central cyanosis
Apical pulse rate of 156/min
The Correct Answer is C
A. Weight loss of 3%:
Newborns commonly experience weight loss in the first few days of life due to factors such as loss of excess fluid and adjustment to feeding. A weight loss of up to 7-10% in the first week is considered normal. Therefore, a weight loss of 3% alone, while notable, is not typically concerning enough to require immediate intervention. However, it should be monitored closely to ensure that the newborn is receiving adequate nutrition and hydration.
B. Voided one time since birth:
Newborns typically pass urine within the first 24 hours after birth. However, the frequency of voiding can vary, and it is not uncommon for a newborn to void only once in the first 24 hours. While it is important for newborns to void regularly to ensure adequate hydration and renal function, voiding once in the first 24 hours may not necessarily indicate a problem, especially if the newborn is breastfeeding. Therefore, while this finding should be monitored, it may not require immediate intervention.
C. Central cyanosis:
Central cyanosis, characterized by bluish discoloration of the lips, tongue, and mucous membranes, indicates inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It suggests a potential respiratory or cardiac problem that requires immediate evaluation and intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent complications. Central cyanosis is a concerning finding in newborns and warrants prompt attention from healthcare providers to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
D. Apical pulse rate of 156/min:
The normal range for a newborn's heart rate is typically 120-160 beats per minute. An apical pulse rate of 156/min falls within this range and is not necessarily indicative of a problem, especially if the newborn is active or crying. While variations in heart rate can occur, a rate of 156/min alone may not be alarming. However, it should be monitored for any changes or trends outside the normal range as part of routine newborn assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
. Lochia rubra with small clots:
Lochia rubra is the normal vaginal discharge occurring after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. It is expected for lochia to be present in the immediate postpartum period, and small clots are also considered normal as long as they are not excessive in size. Therefore, this finding is within the expected range for a client who is 1 hour postpartum and does not require immediate reporting to the provider.
B. Minimal perineal edema:
Perineal edema, or swelling in the perineal area, can be common after childbirth, particularly following vaginal delivery or if there was perineal trauma during labor. Some degree of perineal edema is generally expected in the immediate postpartum period and may resolve with time and appropriate care. As long as the edema is minimal and not causing significant discomfort or obstructing the assessment, it is not typically a cause for immediate concern or reporting to the provider.
C. Boggy fundus:
A boggy fundus refers to a uterus that feels soft and mushy instead of firm and well-contracted. It suggests uterine atony, which is a significant concern in the postpartum period as it can lead to excessive bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage. Therefore, a boggy fundus should be reported promptly to the provider so that interventions can be initiated to address the uterine atony and prevent complications.
D. Temperature 37.7°C (99.9°F):
A temperature of 37.7°C (99.9°F) is slightly elevated but may still fall within the normal range for the immediate postpartum period. While fever can indicate infection, a single temperature reading alone may not be sufficient to confirm an infection. It is important for the nurse to continue monitoring the client's temperature and assess for other signs and symptoms of infection before reporting to the provider. Therefore, this finding does not necessarily warrant immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms suggestive of infection.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Place a cool cloth at the site for 15 min before the procedure:
Placing a cool cloth at the site before the procedure is not typically done for a heel stick in newborns. In fact, applying cold to the site can cause vasoconstriction, which may make it more difficult to obtain an adequate blood sample. Additionally, cooling the area can potentially lead to discomfort for the newborn. Therefore, this action is not recommended and would not be appropriate in this scenario.
B. Apply an alcohol pad to the site after the procedure:
While alcohol pads are commonly used for disinfection before certain procedures, they are not typically used after a heel stick to obtain a blood sample for a total serum bilirubin test. Alcohol can interfere with bilirubin testing by altering the bilirubin levels in the blood, leading to inaccurate results. Therefore, applying an alcohol pad after the procedure is not recommended, particularly for bilirubin testing.
C. Puncture the lateral side of the heel for the procedure:
When performing a heel stick on a newborn, it is important to choose the appropriate site for puncture. The lateral side of the heel is preferred over the medial side because it has fewer nerves and blood vessels, reducing the risk of complications and discomfort for the newborn. Puncturing the lateral side also allows for a more controlled and successful blood draw. Therefore, this choice is the most appropriate for obtaining a blood sample for a total serum bilirubin test.
D. Select a 21-gauge needle to perform the procedure:
The choice of needle gauge for a heel stick in a newborn depends on various factors, including the size of the newborn's heel and the desired blood flow rate. However, a 21-gauge needle is relatively large and may cause more pain and tissue trauma compared to smaller gauge needles, especially in newborns. Smaller gauge needles, such as 23 or 25 gauge, are typically preferred for heel sticks in newborns to minimize discomfort and trauma to the tissue. Therefore, selecting a 21-gauge needle may not be the most appropriate choice for this procedure.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.