The practical nurse (PN) is giving new parents discharge instructions. Which instruction should the PN reinforce with the parents regarding care of their newborn's umbilical cord?
Clean with water and allow to air dry.
Wash frequently with mild soap and water.
Apply baby lotion after the daily bath.
Cover the cord with a sterile dressing.
The Correct Answer is A
Newborns have a stump of the umbilical cord attached to their belly button which eventually falls off within 1-2 weeks. During this time, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. The PN should instruct the parents to clean the area with water and a clean cloth or cotton swab, and then gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. The parents should also be advised to avoid using any harsh soaps, lotions, or alcohol on the cord stump, as this can cause irritation or delay the healing process. It is not recommended to cover the cord stump with a sterile dressing unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare provider.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Fetal heart rate (FHR) is one of the essential indicators of fetal well-being during labor. A fall in FHR following each contraction is known as recurrent deceleration and can be an indication of fetal distress. In this case, the PN should first reposition the client laterally, as this may help to alleviate compression of the umbilical cord and improve fetal oxygenation.
A. Administering oxygen at 10 L/face mask may be necessary, but it is not the first intervention to be implemented in this scenario.
B. Discontinuing oxytocin infusion may be necessary, but it is not the first intervention to be implemented in this scenario.
C. Observing perineum for cord prolapse is not necessary in this scenario.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The priority action for the practical nurse (PN) to take while caring for a client that has just arrived in the emergency department with 2nd degree thermal burns to the right thigh, lower leg and foot, and reports severe pain in the right leg is to remove clothing and cover the burned area with a cool damp cloth. This will help to cool the burn and reduce pain.
Anticipating rehydration of 1000 mL/6 hr. with normal saline (Option A) is an important intervention for burn patients, but it is not the first priority. Completely flushing the burned area with water or sterile saline (Option C) may be appropriate in some cases, but it is not the first intervention that should be implemented. Collecting data such as vital signs, blood gases, height and weight (Option D) is also important, but it is not the first priority.
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