Which newborn is at the lowest risk for elevated unconjugated bilirubin levels?

Choice A rationale:

Iron will facilitate bone growth. This statement is not accurate in the context of feeding a newborn with iron-fortified formula. While iron is essential for overall growth and development, its primary role is not specifically related to bone growth. Instead, it plays a crucial role in the production of hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen in the blood.

Choice B rationale:

Newborns do not metabolize iron adequately. This statement is the correct choice. Newborns have limited iron stores that are obtained from their mothers during pregnancy. As they grow, their iron requirements increase, but their ability to metabolize iron is not fully developed at

birth. Hence, iron-fortified formula is recommended to provide the necessary iron for the newborn's healthy development.

Choice C rationale:

The newborn's iron source will start to deplete. This statement is not accurate in the context of iron-fortified formula feeding. The newborn's initial iron source is the iron stores passed on by the mother during pregnancy. However, the iron-fortified formula is designed to supplement and fulfill the baby's iron needs, preventing depletion of iron stores.

Choice D rationale:

Iron will facilitate eyesight development. This statement is not entirely accurate. While iron is important for many bodily functions, including eye health, it is not specifically responsible for eyesight development in newborns. Visual development in newborns is influenced by various factors, but iron intake through formula feeding directly impacting eyesight is not a primary concern.

Choice A rationale:

Placing the newborn in a radiant warmer may provide warmth, but it does not address the observed signs of respiratory distress, jitteriness, and lethargy. These signs indicate potential respiratory and neurological issues, which need to be assessed and managed promptly.

Choice B rationale:

Initiating phototherapy is not appropriate for the observed signs of respiratory distress, jitteriness, and lethargy. Phototherapy is used to treat neonatal jaundice caused by elevated bilirubin levels, which is not evident from the given information.

Choice C rationale:

The nurse should obtain blood glucose by heel stick to assess the newborn's blood sugar levels. The signs of jitteriness and lethargy may be indicative of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which is common in newborns. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent complications and ensure the baby's well-being.

Choice D rationale:

Measuring the newborn's blood pressure is not the priority at this moment. The observed signs suggest respiratory distress and potential hypoglycemia, which need immediate attention. Blood pressure assessment may be important later on, but it is not the first action the nurse should take based on the given information.