The nurse notes that a newborn's white blood cell count (WBC) is 15,000. The nurse is aware that:.

Fetal circulation continues until after the stress of labor.

Choice A rationale:

Fetal circulation undergoes significant changes at birth. It becomes ineffective as the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life occurs. The foramen ovale and ductus arteriosus, which allow blood to bypass certain fetal circulatory pathways, close as the baby breathes for the first time.

Choice B rationale:

Fetal circulation does not continue until red blood cells are broken down. Red blood cells in a fetus have a shorter lifespan than those in adults and are continually replaced throughout gestation. However, their breakdown is not the reason for the changes in fetal circulation.

Choice C rationale:

The correct answer. Fetal circulation continues until after the stress of labor. During labor, the baby experiences increased stress and pressure, which helps trigger various physiological changes, including the closure of specific fetal circulatory shunts.

Choice D rationale:

Fetal circulation does not continue until adulthood. As mentioned earlier, the transition from fetal to adult circulation occurs during and after birth, with the closure of specific fetal shunts and the establishment of a fully functional adult circulatory system.

Choice A rationale:

Drying the baby thoroughly is not directly related to assessing the successful transition of the respiratory system. It is essential for warmth and comfort but does not provide specific information about the respiratory system.

Choice B rationale:

Suctioning the mouth and nose with a bulb syringe to clear mucus is important to ensure the airways are clear and the newborn can breathe effectively. This action helps assess the airway patency and successful initiation of breathing.

Choice C rationale:

Observing the chest and abdomen is crucial to assess the respiratory effort and symmetry. Normal chest movements and equal rise and fall of the abdomen indicate a successful transition of the respiratory system.

Choice D rationale:

Counting the number of respirations per minute is essential to determine if the respiratory rate falls within the expected reference range (around 30-60 breaths per minute for a newborn) and if there are any irregularities.

Choice E rationale:

Observing the color of the mucous membranes is important as cyanosis (blue discoloration) may indicate inadequate oxygenation. Pink mucous membranes are a positive sign, indicating a successful transition of the respiratory system.