Following a vaginal delivery, the nurse places the neonate under the radiant warmer to elicit spontaneous respirations.

The newborn has a heart rate of 100 beats per minute and remains apneic when the nurse flicks the soles of the feet.

Which action should the nurse implement next?

Choice A rationale

Blow-by oxygen delivery can provide some additional oxygen to the apneic newborn, but it may not be effective in stimulating breathing or providing adequate ventilation. It is a less direct method of addressing apnea compared to positive pressure ventilation.

Choice B rationale

Starting an IV infusion in a scalp vein is important for medication administration or fluid resuscitation but is not the immediate priority for a newborn who is apneic and has a heart rate of 100 beats per minute. Establishing adequate ventilation takes precedence to ensure oxygenation and stabilize the newborn.

Choice C rationale

Assisting the neonatologist with intubation may be necessary if positive pressure ventilation is unsuccessful or if there are signs of severe respiratory distress. However, the immediate next step for an apneic newborn with a heart rate of 100 beats per minute should be to provide positive pressure ventilation to stimulate breathing.

Choice D rationale

Providing positive pressure ventilation is the recommended immediate action for a newborn who remains apneic and has a heart rate of less than 100 beats per minute. This intervention helps to inflate the lungs, establish effective breathing, and improve oxygenation, which is critical for the newborn's survival.

Choice A rationale

While encouraging quiet activities like watching television can provide some distraction and temporary relief, it does not address the underlying need for consistent pain management in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Distraction techniques should be used as an adjunct to proper pain medication rather than a replacement for it. This condition can cause chronic pain, which may negatively impact the child's quality of life if not managed appropriately.

Choice B rationale

Resting when experiencing pain is a common recommendation, but for juvenile idiopathic arthritis, it's essential to balance rest with physical activity to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength. Only encouraging rest can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, which can exacerbate the condition in the long term. Regular pain management can help the child stay more active.

Choice C rationale

Hot baths can help to some extent by relaxing muscles and reducing stiffness, but they are not sufficient as a sole method for managing pain in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The condition often requires consistent medication to control inflammation and pain. Non-pharmacological methods like hot baths should be used in conjunction with prescribed medication rather than as an alternative.

Choice D rationale

Giving pain medication around the clock helps control the pain effectively by maintaining a steady level of medication in the body, preventing breakthrough pain. Consistent pain management allows the child to participate in daily activities and physical therapy, which is essential for maintaining joint function and overall quality of life.