Which maternal event is abnormal in the early postpartum period?

The correct answer is choice D. Announcement of the delivery.

Choice A reason:

Support thermoregulation is a priority in nursing care of the newborn immediately after birth. Newborns are at risk of hypothermia because they have a large surface area to body mass ratio, thin skin, and limited subcutaneous fat. To prevent heat loss, newborns should be dried thoroughly, placed skin-to-skin with the mother, and covered with warm blankets.

Choice B reason:

Identifying the infant is a priority nursing care of the newborn immediately after birth. Newborns should be identified with identification bands that match those of the mother and father or significant other. This helps prevent errors in infant identification and ensures safety and security.

Choice C reason:

Promoting normal respirations is a priority nursing care of the newborn immediately after birth. Newborns need to establish effective breathing patterns to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent complications such as respiratory distress syndrome or meconium aspiration syndrome. To promote normal respirations, newborns should be suctioned gently to clear the airway, stimulated to cry, and assessed for signs of distress.

Choice D reason:

Announcement of the delivery is not a priority in nursing care of the newborn immediately after birth. While it may be a joyful moment for the parents and family, it does not affect the health and well-being of the newborn. Therefore, it can be done later after the essential newborn care has been completed.

Choice A reason:

While hypoglycemia (glucose <45 mg/dL) is concerning,58 mg/dLis within acceptable ranges for many institutions, especially in asymptomatic newborns. Monitoring is required, but it is less urgent than respiratory distress.

Choice B reason:

Respiratory rate of 78 breaths per minute is also within the normal range for a newborn, which typically ranges from 30 to 60 breaths per minute. Though respiratory rate is essential to assess, it does not take priority over other critical issues.

Choice C reason:

Newborns typically have a normal respiratory rate of30-60 breaths/minute. A rate of78indicatessignificant tachypnea, which could signal respiratory distress (e.g., transient tachypnea of the newborn, infection, or respiratory distress syndrome). Rapid breathing can lead to fatigue, hypoxia, or respiratory failure if not promptly addressed.

Choice D reason:

A glucose reading of 58 mg/dL is concerning in a newborn. Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) can lead to serious complications if not promptly addressed. Newborns are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia, and it requires immediate assessment and intervention.