A premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) receives artificial surfactant. How does the nurse explain surfactant therapy to the parents?
"Your baby needs this medication to fight a possible respiratory tract infection."
"Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea."
"Surfactant improves the ability of your baby's lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide."
"The drug keeps your baby from requiring too much sedation."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as surfactant is not an antibiotic and does not treat infections. Surfactant is a substance that is naturally produced by the lungs to reduce the surface tension and prevent the alveoli from collapsing. Premature infants may have insufficient surfactant, which can cause RDS.
Choice B reason: This statement is partially true, as surfactant can help reduce episodes of periodic apnea, which is a condition where the newborn stops breathing for more than 20 seconds. However, this is not the main purpose of surfactant therapy, and other interventions, such as oxygen, ventilation, and caffeine, may be needed to treat apnea.
Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as surfactant improves the ability of the baby's lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, which are essential for life. Surfactant therapy can improve the lung function, reduce the need for mechanical ventilation, and prevent complications, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia and pulmonary hemorrhage.
Choice D reason: This statement is false, as surfactant does not affect the level of sedation in the newborn. Surfactant is administered through an endotracheal tube, which may require sedation to reduce discomfort and agitation. The nurse should monitor the newborn's vital signs, oxygen saturation, and pain level during and after the procedure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Primigravida in spontaneous labor with preterm twins is not at the greatest risk for early postpartum hemorrhage, as preterm births are associated with lower blood loss and smaller placentas. However, this client may have other complications, such as preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, or fetal growth restriction.
Choice B reason: Primiparous woman (G 2, P 1-0-0-1) being prepared for an emergency cesarean birth for fetal distress is not at the greatest risk for early postpartum hemorrhage, as cesarean births are associated with higher blood loss and larger incisions. However, this client may have other complications, such as infection, wound dehiscence, or thromboembolism.
Choice C reason: Multiparous woman (G 3, P 2-0-0-2) with an 8-hour labor is at the greatest risk for early postpartum hemorrhage, as multiparity and rapid labor are both risk factors for uterine atony, which is the most common cause of early postpartum hemorrhage. Uterine atony is a condition where the uterus fails to contract and retract after delivery, and can cause excessive bleeding and hypovolemic shock.
Choice D reason: Woman with severe preeclampsia on magnesium sulfate whose labor is being induced is not at the greatest risk for early postpartum hemorrhage, as preeclampsia and magnesium sulfate are both risk factors for late postpartum hemorrhage, which occurs after 24 hours of delivery. However, this client may have other complications, such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, or placental abruption.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assisting the client with transferring to the gynecology unit is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it does not address the client's emotional needs or preferences. The nurse should first assess the client's coping and grieving process, and provide support and comfort.
Choice B reason: Offering the mother private time with the newborn is the first action that the nurse should take, as it can facilitate the bonding and closure process, and help the client express her feelings and emotions. The nurse should respect the client's wishes and cultural beliefs regarding the viewing and holding of the stillborn infant, and provide a quiet and private environment.
Choice C reason: Administering alprazolam 0.5 mg PO is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a pharmacological intervention that requires a prescription and an assessment of the client's condition and history. The nurse should first use nonpharmacological methods, such as active listening, therapeutic communication, and counseling, to help the client cope and manage her anxiety and grief.
Choice D reason: Contacting the health care facility's clergy is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it may not be appropriate or desired by the client. The nurse should first ask the client if she wants any spiritual or religious support, and respect her decision and beliefs.
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