Your postpartum patient is experiencing a hemorrhage. Vital signs are 156/94, heart rate 87, O2 saturation 95%. You increase the Pitocin drip wide open and prepare to give what medication to the patient next?

Choice A rationale

Placing the infant prone increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), particularly for neonates. Supine positioning reduces this risk and is supported by evidence-based guidelines for infant care.

Choice B rationale

Tightly swaddling and dimming lights mimic the in utero environment, reducing overstimulation and promoting self-regulation. This is especially vital for neonates with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), who are sensitive to external stimuli.

Choice C rationale

Providing excessive stimulation can exacerbate stress responses in neonates with NAS. This may manifest as increased crying, irritability, and tachycardia, worsening their fragile physiological state.

Choice D rationale

Feeding half-strength formula is not advised as it may cause inadequate caloric intake and impaired weight gain. Normal feeding practices, with proper intervals, are crucial to supporting healthy growth and development.

Choice A rationale

Respiratory depression is less common in myelomeningocele unless secondary to severe neurological anomalies. It is not the primary risk mediator in this congenital condition.

Choice B rationale

Decreased cardiac output is not directly associated with myelomeningocele. This condition primarily affects the spinal cord and surrounding tissues rather than cardiovascular function.

Choice C rationale

Infection risk is high due to exposed neural tissue, making it the most significant concern. Infection can lead to meningitis, sepsis, and neurological deterioration if not properly managed.

Choice D rationale

Neurological damage is inherent to myelomeningocele but does not act as an external risk mediator. The focus is on preventing additional risks like infections to improve outcomes.