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 B
Explanation
The nurse should use the lower ribcage border to measure chest circumference.
Choice A rationale:
The sternal notch is not an appropriate landmark for measuring chest circumference. It is a notch at the top of the sternum and not indicative of chest circumference.
Choice B rationale:
When measuring the chest circumference of a newborn, the correct anatomical landmark to use is the nipple line. This method ensures that the measurement is taken at a consistent and reproducible location across different individuals, providing an accurate assessment of the chest size relative to growth and development standards. It's important to position the measuring tape at the level of the nipples, encircling the chest at its largest point, which typically aligns with the nipple line.
Choice C rationale:
The lower ribcage border is also not suitable as it may vary significantly with respiratory movements and is not a stable landmark for consistent measurements.
Choice D rationale:
The axillae (armpits) are not used as a landmark for measuring chest circumference. It is not a standardized anatomical point for this purpose.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rooting. Choice A rationale:
The Moro reflex is a startle reflex characterized by the infant's sudden extension and abduction of the arms in response to a loud noise or sudden movement. It is not involved in the initiation of sucking and is unrelated to breastfeeding.
Choice B rationale:
The rooting reflex is a crucial reflex that helps initiate sucking in newborns. When the infant's cheek is stroked or touched, they will turn their head toward the stimulus and open their mouth, preparing for feeding. This reflex helps the infant find the mother's nipple and begin breastfeeding effectively.
Choice C rationale:
The stepping reflex is a primitive reflex observed in newborns when held upright with their feet touching a solid surface. The baby will make stepping movements, mimicking walking. However, this reflex is not related to the initiation of sucking and breastfeeding.
Choice D rationale:
The Babinski reflex is a reflex in which the big toe extends upward and the other toes fan out when the sole of the foot is stimulated. This reflex is present in newborns and disappears as the child grows older. It is not involved in the initiation of sucking.
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