Four newborns were admitted into the neonatal nursery 1 hour ago. They are all sleeping in overhead warmers. Which of the babies should the nurse ask the neonatologist to evaluate?
The neonate with respirations of 78 and a heart rate of 176
The neonate with a temperature of 99.1 F and a weight of 3000 grams
The neonate with raised white specks on the gums
The neonate with white spots on the bridge of the nose
The Correct Answer is A
A) The neonate with respirations of 78 and a heart rate of 176:
This is the most concerning finding and requires immediate evaluation. Normal respiratory rate for a newborn is typically between 30 and 60 breaths per minute, so a rate of 78 breaths per minute is significantly elevated, indicating potential respiratory distress. Additionally, a heart rate of 176 beats per minute, while somewhat elevated, could indicate tachycardia, especially if the baby is experiencing distress or inadequate oxygenation. This combination of abnormal vital signs may point to respiratory or cardiovascular compromise, such as respiratory distress syndrome or other neonatal respiratory issues, which requires immediate evaluation and intervention.
B) The neonate with a temperature of 99.1°F and a weight of 3000 grams:
This neonate’s temperature is within the normal range (97.7°F to 99.5°F), and a weight of 3000 grams is also considered appropriate for a full-term newborn. These findings do not raise any immediate concerns, and no further action is necessary based on these observations alone.
C) The neonate with raised white specks on the gums:
Raised white specks or nodules on the gums are often a normal finding in newborns and are called Epstein pearls. These are benign cystic formations that do not require treatment. They are not a cause for concern and are common in newborns, usually disappearing on their own within a few weeks.
D) The neonate with white spots on the bridge of the nose:
White spots on the nose are likely to be Milia, which are small, benign cysts commonly seen on the face of newborns, particularly on the nose, cheeks, and chin. Milia are harmless and typically resolve without treatment within a few weeks. There is no need for concern in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Prolactin:
Prolactin is the primary hormone responsible for stimulating milk production in the postpartum period. In breastfeeding mothers, prolactin levels remain elevated, especially during the first few weeks after delivery, to support lactation. This hormone is released in response to suckling and is essential for maintaining a steady milk supply. Elevated prolactin levels help establish and maintain breastfeeding during the early postpartum period, even as other pregnancy-related hormones begin to decline.
B) Estrogen:
Estrogen levels drop sharply after childbirth, as the placenta is no longer present to produce this hormone. The decline in estrogen is one of the factors that helps initiate lactation. While estrogen rises later during the postpartum period as the body returns to its non-pregnant state, it is not elevated during the immediate postpartum period in breastfeeding women.
C) Progesterone:
Similar to estrogen, progesterone levels fall quickly after delivery. Progesterone is involved in maintaining pregnancy, and its levels decrease significantly once the placenta is delivered. A reduction in progesterone is one of the hormonal changes that triggers the onset of lactation. It does not remain elevated in the immediate postpartum period.
D) Human placental lactogen (hPL):
hPL is produced by the placenta during pregnancy to support fetal growth and prepare the breasts for lactation. However, after delivery, hPL levels decline rapidly because the placenta is expelled. It is not elevated in the immediate postpartum period.
E) Relaxin:
Relaxin is a hormone that helps to soften the cervix and relax the ligaments in preparation for childbirth. Its levels are elevated during pregnancy and drop significantly after delivery. It does not remain elevated in the postpartum period, particularly in breastfeeding women.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Assess the woman's fundus and massage it if boggy:
A saturated pad within 15 minutes after delivery suggests a hemorrhage, and the first priority in this situation is to assess the fundus. If the fundus is boggy (soft and not contracted), it is a sign of uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Massaging the fundus helps stimulate uterine contraction, which can help stop the bleeding.
B) Assess the woman's pulse and BP for signs of hypovolemic shock:
While it is important to monitor vital signs for signs of hypovolemic shock (e.g., increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, and pale skin), this action would not be the first priority in managing a postpartum hemorrhage. The immediate focus should be on stopping the bleeding by addressing uterine atony. Hypovolemic shock assessment is important, but it comes after the initial steps of managing hemorrhage.
C) Call the woman's primary healthcare provider:
Calling the provider may be necessary if the bleeding does not stop after initial interventions. However, it should not be the first action. The nurse should first assess the uterus and attempt to stop the bleeding by massaging the fundus before calling the provider.
D) Begin an IV infusion of Ringer's lactate solution and administer oxytocin:
Starting an IV infusion and administering oxytocin may be part of the treatment for postpartum hemorrhage, but the first action should be to assess and manage the fundus. Oxytocin can help contract the uterus, but massaging the fundus is the immediate intervention. Intravenous fluids and medications should be initiated once the uterus is assessed and massaged, especially if bleeding persists.
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