A pregnant woman was admitted for induction of labor at 43 weeks of gestation with sure dates. A nonstress test (NST) in the obstetrician's office revealed a nonreactive tracing. On artificial rupture of membranes, thick meconium-stained fluid was noted. What should the nurse caring for the infant after birth anticipate?
Meconium aspiration, hypoglycemia, and dry, cracked skin
Hyperglycemia, hyperthermia, and an alert, wide-eyed appearance
Excessive vernix caseosa covering the skin, lethargy, and RDS
Golden yellow to green-stained skin and nails, absence of scalp hair, and an increased amount of subcutaneous fat
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This statement is correct, as these are the common complications of post-term infants, who are born after 42 weeks of gestation. Meconium aspiration can occur when the fetus passes meconium in utero and inhales it into the lungs, causing respiratory distress, inflammation, and infection. Hypoglycemia can occur due to the depletion of glycogen stores and the increased metabolic demands. Dry, cracked skin can occur due to the loss of vernix caseosa and the reduced amniotic fluid.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as these are the signs of neonatal hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Neonatal hypocalcemia can occur due to maternal diabetes, prematurity, or asphyxia, and can cause jitteriness, seizures, or tetany.
Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as these are the characteristics of preterm infants, who are born before 37 weeks of gestation. Excessive vernix caseosa covering the skin is a protective coating that prevents heat and water loss. Lethargy and RDS are signs of immaturity and underdevelopment of the central nervous system and the lungs.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as these are the features of infants with erythroblastosis fetalis, which is a hemolytic disease caused by the incompatibility of the Rh factor or the ABO blood group between the mother and the fetus. Golden yellow to green-stained skin and nails are due to the accumulation of bilirubin, which is a breakdown product of red blood cells. Absence of scalp hair and an increased amount of subcutaneous fat are due to the chronic hypoxia and edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tampons are not safe to use to absorb the leaking amniotic fluid, because they can introduce bacteria into the vagina and uterus, and increase the risk of infection and preterm labor. The nurse should instruct the client to use sanitary pads instead, and change them frequently.
Choice B reason: Reporting a temperature less than 37 degrees C is not a necessary activity, because it is a normal finding and does not indicate any complication. The nurse should instruct the client to report a temperature greater than 37.8 degrees C, which can be a sign of infection or chorioamnionitis.
Choice C reason: Not engaging in sexual activity is a recommended activity, because it can help prevent further rupture of membranes, infection, and preterm labor. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid any vaginal or cervical stimulation, such as intercourse, douching, or tampon use.
Choice D reason: Taking frequent tub baths is not a safe activity, because it can expose the vagina and uterus to contaminated water, and increase the risk of infection and preterm labor. The nurse should instruct the client to take showers instead, and avoid submerging the lower body in water.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using fingertips when calming the newborn is not recommended, as it can overstimulate the immature nervous system and cause stress. Instead, the nurse should use gentle, firm, and sustained touch, such as cupping the head and feet, or swaddling the newborn.
Choice B reason: Positioning the premature infant on their abdomen is contraindicated, as it can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The nurse should position the newborn on their back or side, with a rolled blanket or towel to support the spine and prevent flattening of the head.
Choice C reason: Keeping the newborn in a well-lit nursery is not advisable, as it can interfere with the development of the circadian rhythm and sleep patterns. The nurse should provide a dark and quiet environment for the newborn, and expose them to natural light during the day.
Choice D reason: Clustering the newborn's care activities is beneficial, as it can reduce the number of disruptions and allow for longer periods of rest and growth. The nurse should plan and coordinate the care activities, such as feeding, bathing, changing, and assessing, to minimize the stress on the newborn.
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