When assessing a newborn 1 hour after birth, the nurse measures an axillary temperature of 95.8° F (35.4° C), an apical pulse of 114 beats per minute, and a respiratory rate of 60 breaths per minute. The nurse would identify which area as the priority?
Hypothermia.
Deficient fluid volume.
Impaired gas exchange.
Risk for infection.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Hypothermia is the priority area for this newborn because the axillary temperature of 95.8° F (35.4° C) is below the normal range of 97.7° F to 99.5° F (36.5° C to 37.5° C) for newborns1. Hypothermia can lead to complications such as hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and impaired oxygen delivery2. The nurse should initiate interventions to warm the newborn, such as skin-to-skin contact, radiant warmer, or swaddling2.
Choice B reason:
Deficient fluid volume is not the priority area for this newborn because the apical pulse of 114 beats per minute is within the normal range of 100 to 160 beats per minute for newborns345. A low pulse rate can indicate dehydration or shock in newborns2. The nurse should monitor the newborn's fluid intake and output, weight, and signs of dehydration, such as dry mucous membranes, sunken fontanels, and poor skin turgor2.
Choice C reason:
Impaired gas exchange is not the priority area for this newborn because the respiratory rate of 60 breaths per minute is within the normal range of 30 to 60 breaths per minute for newborns345. A high or low respiratory rate can indicate respiratory distress or failure in newborns2. The nurse should assess the newborn's breath sounds, chest movements, oxygen saturation, and signs of respiratory distress, such as nasal flaring, grunting, retractions, and cyanosis2.
Choice D reason:
Risk for infection is not the priority area for this newborn because there is no evidence of infection in the vital signs or the question stem. However, newborns are vulnerable to infection due to their immature immune systems and exposure to pathogens during birth and aftercare2. The nurse should follow infection control measures, such as hand hygiene, aseptic technique, and cord care, and educate the parents on how to prevent infection at home2.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Babinski's Reflex is the normal response in infants when the sole of the foot is stroked from the heel to the ball of the foot. The big toe moves upward or toward the top surface of the foot, and the other toes fan out. This reflex is normal in children up to 2 years old, and it disappears as the nervous system matures. It may indicate damage to the central nervous system in older children and adults.
Choice B reason:
Stepping Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are held upright with their feet touching a flat surface. They will lift one foot and then the other, as if they are walking. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 2 months. It helps prepare the infant for voluntary walking.
Choice C reason:
Moro Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are startled by a loud noise or a sudden movement. They will extend their arms and legs, open their hands, and then curl up and bring their arms together as if they are hugging themselves. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 4 to 6 months. It is thought to be a protective response that helps the infant cling to their caregiver.
Choice D reason:
Plantar Grasp Reflex is the normal response in infants when pressure is applied to the sole of the foot near the toes. The toes will curl down and grasp the stimulus. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 9 to 12 months. It is similar to the palmar grasp reflex in the hands, and it helps develop the muscles and nerves in the feet. Some additional sentences are:. If you are interested in learning more about infant development, you can check out some of these links:. • [A guide to newborn reflexes]. • [A video demonstration of newborn reflexes].
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Change her position to the right side
Changing the mother’s position to the right side can sometimes help improve fetal oxygenation by relieving pressure on the vena cava. However, since the mother is already lying on her left side, which is typically the preferred position to optimize blood flow, changing to the right side may not be as effective .
Choice B: Place a wedge under the left hip
Placing a wedge under the left hip is a common intervention to improve uteroplacental blood flow. This position helps to tilt the uterus off the vena cava, enhancing venous return and improving cardiac output, which can positively affect fetal oxygenation. This is why it is the correct answer.
Choice C: Lower the head of the bed
Lowering the head of the bed can help increase blood flow to the upper body and brain, but it does not specifically address the issue of improving uteroplacental blood flow. This action is less targeted for resolving nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns.
Choice D: Place the mother in a Trendelenburg position
The Trendelenburg position, where the mother is laid flat on her back with her feet elevated higher than her head, is generally used to treat hypotension or to improve venous return in cases of shock. However, it is not typically recommended for nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns as it can increase pressure on the diaphragm and reduce respiratory efficiency.
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