Shortly after delivery, a symptom of respiratory distress in the newborn that should be reported is:
Mucus draining from the nose
Cyanosis of the hands and feet
Irregular heart rate
Sternal or chest retractions
The Correct Answer is D
Sternal or chest retractions. This is because sternal or chest retractions are a sign of respiratory distress in newborns, which means they are having difficulty breathing. Chest retractions occur when the baby's chest pulls in with each breath, indicating that they are using extra muscles to breathe. This can be caused by various conditions that affect the lungs, such as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), pneumonia, or congenital heart defects.
Choice A is not correct because mucus draining from the nose is not a symptom of respiratory distress in newborns. It is normal for newborns to have some mucus in their nose and mouth after birth, which can be cleared by suctioning or wiping.
Mucus drainage does not interfere with breathing unless it is excessive or thick.
Choice B is not correct because cyanosis of the hands and feet is not a symptom of respiratory distress in newborns. It is normal for newborns to have bluish discoloration of their hands and feet, called acrocyanosis, for the first few days after birth. This is due to immature circulation and does not indicate a lack of oxygen. Cyanosis of the central parts of the body, such as the face, lips, and tongue, is more concerning and should be reported.
Choice C is not correct because irregular heart rate is not a symptom of respiratory distress in newborns. It is normal for newborns to have some variations in their heart rate, especially during sleep cycles. The normal heart rate range for newborns is 100 to 160 beats per minute. A heart rate that is too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia) may indicate a problem with the heart or other organs³.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Fullness of the bladder. A boggy uterus with the fundus above the umbilicus and deviated to the side indicates that the uterus is not contracting properly and may be displaced by a full bladder. A full bladder can interfere with uterine involution and increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should assess the bladder and assist the patient to empty it if needed.
Choice A. Blood pressure is not the next assessment because it is not related to the position and tone of the uterus. Blood pressure may be affected by blood loss, but it is not a priority in this situation.
Choice B. Amount of lochia is not the next assessment because it is not related to the position and tone of the uterus. Lochia may be increased or decreased depending on the uterine contraction, but it is not a priority in this situation.
Choice D. Level of pain is not the next assessment because it is not related to the position and tone of the uterus. Pain may be present due to uterine cramping or other factors, but it is not a priority in this situation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Check for blood under the client's buttock. This is because lochia rubra is the normal vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and tissue from the placenta and the uterus lining. It is usually heavy for the first three to four days and can pool under the client's buttocks if they are lying down. Checking for blood under the buttock can help assess the amount of bleeding and prevent complications such as infection or hemorrhage.
The other choices are not correct for the following reasons:
A. Increasing the rate of the IV fluids is not necessary because the client's fundus is firm and midline, indicating that the uterus is contracting well and preventing excessive bleeding.
B. Assisting the client to ambulate is not advisable because it can increase the lochia flow and cause fainting or dizziness due to blood loss.
C. Performing fundal massage is not indicated because the fundus is already firm and midline, meaning that the uterus is adequately contracted. Massaging a firm fundus can cause pain and discomfort to the client.
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