The birth weight of an infant delivered by a woman with gestational diabetes is 10.1 pounds (4,581 grams). The infant is jitery and has a heel stick glucose level of 40 mg/dL (2.2 mmol/L) 30 minutes after birth. Based on this information, which intervention should the practical nurse (PN) implement first?
Reference range:
Blood glucose neonate: [30 to 60 mg/dL or 1.7 to 3.3 mmol/L]
Offer nipple feedings of 10% dextrose.
Begin frequent feedings of breast milk or formula
Repeat the heel stick for glucose in one hour
Assess for signs of hypocalcemia
The Correct Answer is B
b. Begin frequent feedings of breast milk or formula.
The infant has hypoglycemia, which is a low blood glucose level that can cause jiteriness, lethargy, seizures, or coma. Hypoglycemia is common in infants of mothers with gestational diabetes, as they produce excess insulin in response to high maternal glucose levels. The PN should begin frequent feedings of breast milk or formula, as this can provide a source of glucose and stimulate the infant's own glucose production.
The other options are not correct because:
a. Offering nipple feedings of 10% dextrose may be indicated in some cases of severe hypoglycemia, but it is not the first intervention. The PN should try oral feedings of breast milk or formula first, as they are more natural and less invasive.
c. Repeating the heel stick for glucose in one hour may be necessary to monitor the infant's glucose level, but it is not the first intervention. The PN should treat the hypoglycemia first, as it can have serious consequences if left untreated.
d. Assessing for signs of hypocalcemia may be important, as hypocalcemia is another possible complication in infants of mothers with gestational diabetes, but it is not the first intervention. The PN should address the hypoglycemia first, as it is more urgent and more likely to cause jiteriness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct - Flaring of the nares is a sign of increased respiratory effort and can indicate acute respiratory distress.
B) Incorrect - While a resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/min is elevated for a 4-month-old infant, it may not necessarily indicate acute distress, especially when considered along with other signs.
C) Incorrect - Bilateral bronchial breath sounds may indicate lung pathology, but they are not specific to acute respiratory distress.
D) Incorrect - Diaphragmatic respirations, where the abdomen moves more than the chest during breathing, are normal for infants. They do not necessarily indicate acute respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- An oil retention enema is used to soften the stool and lubricate the rectum, making it easier to pass the stool. It is usually oil-based and contains 90-120 ml of solution.
- The temperature of the enema solution affects the effectiveness and comfort of the procedure. If the solution is too hot or cold, it can cause pain, cramps, or damage to the rectal tissue³. If the solution is too warm, it can also stimulate peristalsis and cause the client to expel the enema before it has time to work.
- The ideal temperature for an enema solution is close to the client’s body temperature, which is around 98°F or 36°C. This temperature ensures that the solution is comfortable and does not cause adverse reactions.
Option A is incorrect because the client’s comfort level may not reflect the optimal temperature for the enema.
Option B is incorrect because the temperature of the enema does affect its effectiveness and safety.
Option D is incorrect because the temperature is too high and can cause harm to the client.
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