The nurse notes that a newborn's white blood cell count (WBC) is 15,000. The nurse is aware that:.
This indicates a severe infection.
This is a normal WBC for a newborn.
This is a lab error.
You must call the doctor.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A white blood cell count of 15,000 does not necessarily indicate a severe infection. In newborns, WBC counts are typically higher than in adults, and they gradually decrease over the first few days after birth. A value of 15,000 falls within the normal range for a newborn and is not indicative of a severe infection.
Choice B rationale:
A white blood cell count of 15,000 is considered a normal range for a newborn. Newborns have higher WBC counts as a natural response to the stress of birth and exposure to the outside environment. The immune system is still developing, and elevated WBC counts are normal during this period.
Choice C rationale:
Assuming there are no other indications of lab error, such as abnormal results in other tests, it would be premature to label the WBC count as a lab error. Additionally, healthcare professionals should always consider the overall clinical picture before assuming a lab error based on a single result.
Choice D rationale:
There is no immediate need to call the doctor based solely on the WBC count of 15,000. Medical decisions should be made in the context of the newborn's overall clinical condition, and a single lab result does not warrant an immediate call to the doctor.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Respiratory distress is a priority assessment finding that indicates a newborn may be experiencing cold stress. Cold stress can cause the baby's body to burn brown fat to generate heat, leading to increased oxygen demand and respiratory distress as a compensatory mechanism.
Choice B rationale:
Hyperglycemia is not associated with cold stress. Instead, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a concern in newborns experiencing cold stress as they deplete their glucose stores to maintain body temperature.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is not a priority assessment finding for cold stress. Metabolic acidosis (not listed in the options) can be associated with cold stress due to increased anaerobic metabolism, but it is not one of the provided choices.
Choice D rationale:
Hypoglycemia is a priority assessment finding associated with cold stress. As the baby's body uses glucose to produce heat from burning brown fat, it can lead to a drop in blood sugar levels, which is a significant concern in newborns.
Choice E rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is not listed among the provided choices, but it can be associated with cold stress due to the increased production of lactic acid from anaerobic metabolism when trying to generate heat.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Wearing a supportive bra can actually help to manage engorgement, so it's not recommended to avoid wearing one during the day.
Choice B rationale:
Cold compresses are typically applied after feeding to reduce swelling, not before. Applying them before might hinder the milk let-down reflex.
Choice C rationale:
Frequent feeding can help to alleviate engorgement by ensuring that the breasts are being emptied regularly.
Choice D rationale:
Stopping breastfeeding until finishing antibiotics is not advisable, as it can lead to decreased milk supply and potential issues with engorgement. Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider are usually safe to take while breastfeeding, and interrupting breastfeeding can exacerbate the engorgement problem. This choice is not appropriate for managing breast engorgement and is therefore incorrect.
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