The nurse admits a newborn to the admission nursery and prepares to bathe the baby for the first time after assessing which of the following?
Two hours since last eating.
Temperature 36.2°C axillary on radiant warmer.
Drying of the umbilical cord.
Stable temperature for 2 hours.
The Correct Answer is D
A. This is not a primary consideration before bathing a newborn. The timing of the last feeding is more relevant to assessing the risk of hypoglycemia rather than determining readiness for a bath.
B. This temperature is slightly below the recommended range for newborns (36.5°C to 37.5°C). Bathing should be delayed until the newborn's temperature is stable.
C. While care of the umbilical cord is important, it does not determine the timing of the first bath. The cord can be kept dry even if the baby is bathed.
D. Ensuring that the newborn has maintained a stable body temperature for at least 2 hours is crucial before giving the first bath. Bathing can cause a drop in body temperature, so it's essential that the newborn's thermoregulation is stable to avoid hypothermia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The normal temperature range for a newborn measured axillary (armpit) is 97.7-99.3°F (36.5- 37.4°C). This is a crucial vital sign to monitor, as any significant deviation from this range could indicate an underlying issue requiring further evaluation.
Choice B rationale:
The newborn's heart rate varies with their activity level. While asleep, it is around 100 bpm, and when awake, it is 120-160 bpm. During crying or agitation, it can go up to 180 bpm.
Monitoring the heart rate is essential, as any abnormal values might indicate cardiac or other health problems.
Choice D rationale:
The normal respiratory rate for a newborn is 30-60 breaths per minute. Respiratory rate is a critical parameter to monitor as rapid or slow breathing could be a sign of respiratory distress or other respiratory conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Blood pressure is not routinely assessed in newborns, as it is challenging to obtain accurate readings due to their small size and physiology. Instead, other vital signs are relied upon for assessment.
Choice E rationale:
The head circumference is not included in the normal vital sign ranges. However, monitoring head circumference is crucial during infancy to track brain growth and development.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
"My baby will be placed under special lights if the test is elevated.”.
Choice A rationale:

This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the body. If the PKU test is elevated, it means that the baby has high levels of phenylalanine, and immediate dietary intervention is required. The parent's statement about special lights suggests a confusion with jaundice treatment, which is not related to PKU.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is accurate. Before the PKU test is done, the baby needs to consume formula or breast milk to ensure accurate test results.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is also accurate. PKU is a genetic disorder that can be managed with a special diet low in phenylalanine. By adhering to the prescribed diet, the harmful effects of PKU can be minimized.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is accurate. It is common for the PKU test to be repeated at the 2-week check- up to confirm the initial results and ensure early detection and management of PKU if present.
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