When changing a diaper on a 2-day-old infant, the practical nurse (PN) observes that the baby's legs are flexed with limited abduction. Based on this finding, what action should the PN take next?
Perform range of motion to the joint.
Continue care since this is a normal finding.
Notify the healthcare provider.
Document the finding in the record.
The Correct Answer is C
Limited abduction of the legs in a newborn can be a sign of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), a condition in which the hip joint is not properly formed. The practical nurse (PN) should notify the healthcare provider of this finding so that further assessment and appropriate intervention can be initiated.
Performing range of motion to the joint (A) is not appropriate without a healthcare provider's order. Continuing care as if this is a normal finding (B) is not appropriate because limited abduction of the legs in a newborn can be a sign of DDH. While documenting the finding in the record (D) is important, notifying the healthcare provider is the most important action for the PN to take next.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The PN should inform the client that athlete's foot is a fungal infection and that antibiotics are not effective against fungi. The client needs to use an antifungal medication to treat the infection. The other options are not accurate or appropriate responses.
Antibiotics take a week to be effective against the infection (A) is not accurate because antibiotics are not effective against fungal infections.
When the itching stops, continue to use the ointment for two weeks (C) is not appropriate because the client is using the wrong type of medication.
A thick layer of the medication is needed to stop the itching (D) is not accurate because the client is using the wrong type of medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The practical nurse (PN) should recognize that the client who is 2-weeks postpartum and presents with feelings of irritability, severe mood swings, and an irrational sense of her ability to keep her infant safe may be exhibiting symptoms of postpartum psychosis. Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious condition that can develop after childbirth and is characterized by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and severe mood swings. The client's belief that her infant is going to die and that there is nothing she can do to save her baby may indicate the presence of delusions. The PN should report these symptoms to the appropriate healthcare provider for further assessment and intervention.
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