The new mother of a 2-day-old neonate who weighed 8 pounds at birth is distressed that the baby has lost one-half pound. The home health nurse's response is one of:
Alertness as such weight loss is not expected
Reassurance as this is a normal weight loss
Alarm as this is a drastic weight loss
Concern as this may be an indicator of inadequate nutrition
The Correct Answer is B
A. Alertness as such weight loss is not expected: This response may unnecessarily alarm the mother when, in fact, some weight loss in the early days is normal.
B. Reassurance as this is a normal weight loss.
It is normal for newborns to lose some weight during the first few days of life. The loss is often related to fluid loss, changes in feeding patterns, and initial adjustment to life outside the womb. A loss of one-half pound in a 2-day-old neonate is generally considered within the normal range. It's important for the nurse to reassure the new mother that this weight loss is expected and not a cause for alarm. Newborns typically start to regain their birth weight within a week or two. This reassurance can help ease the mother's distress and anxiety.
C. Alarm as this is a drastic weight loss: Characterizing this weight loss as "drastic" is not accurate or helpful and would likely increase the mother's anxiety.
D. Concern as this may be an indicator of inadequate nutrition: Jumping to the conclusion of inadequate nutrition without further assessment and evidence is premature and may unnecessarily worry the mother. It's important to start with reassurance and then investigate if there are concerns about nutrition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A fontanelle that bulges with crying.
Myelomeningocele is a congenital neural tube defect that involves the spinal cord. It is associated with an increased risk of hydrocephalus, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). The fontanelle (soft spot) on an infant's head can provide insight into ICP. When an infant with myelomeningocele has an increase in intracranial pressure, the fontanelle may bulge, especially when the infant cries. This is due to the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull.
B. Increased respiratory rate: While increased intracranial pressure can affect various body systems, an increased respiratory rate is not a specific sign of ICP associated with myelomeningocele.
C. A high-pitched cry: A high-pitched cry is not typically associated with increased intracranial pressure in the context of myelomeningocele. Signs of ICP in infants may include irritability, lethargy, vomiting, and changes in head circumference.
D. Tachycardia: Tachycardia can be a response to stress or discomfort in an infant, but it is not a specific indicator of increased intracranial pressure related to myelomeningocele.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "You can give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4-6 hours as needed for pain."
Option A is the most appropriate response because it addresses pain management, which is a common symptom in cases of tonsillitis. Acetaminophen can be used to provide relief from pain and fever, which are often associated with viral tonsillitis. However, it's important for the parent to follow the dosing instructions on the medication label and consult with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns or if the child's condition worsens.
Option B ("You will need to schedule a follow-up appointment in 2 weeks") is also not the best initial response, as it doesn't address immediate care at home for the child's comfort and pain relief.
Option C ("You will need to give your child a prescribed antibiotic for 10 days") is not the correct approach, as antibiotics do not treat viral illnesses. Viral tonsillitis is usually caused by a viral infection, and antibiotics are not effective for viral infections.
Option D ("You can place warm towels around your child's neck for comfort") can provide some comfort but is not the primary treatment for viral tonsillitis. It may help alleviate discomfort, but pain relief with acetaminophen is typically more effective.
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