A newborn was born over 3 days ago and has not passed any meconium stools. What should the nurse be most concerned about at this time?

Questions 95

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Nursing Care of the Newborn and Family Questions

Question 1 of 5

A newborn was born over 3 days ago and has not passed any meconium stools. What should the nurse be most concerned about at this time?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bowel obstruction. In a newborn, failure to pass meconium within the first 24-48 hours can indicate an underlying bowel obstruction, which is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. This could be due to various causes such as meconium ileus, Hirschsprung's disease, or anatomical defects. Jaundice (choice A) is common in newborns but not directly related to the absence of meconium. Constipation (choice B) typically occurs later in infancy and is not a concern in this immediate postnatal period. Gastrointestinal infection (choice D) is possible but less likely given the absence of meconium passage.

Question 2 of 5

Which statement indicates that learning has occurred in a new mother regarding iron storage in her newborn?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates an understanding that iron stores are passed from the mother to the newborn during pregnancy. This indicates learning has occurred as the mother recognizes that her newborn doesn't need additional iron if she had adequate stores. Choice B is incorrect because adding iron to breast milk after pumping may not be effective as the iron does not transfer well. Choice C is incorrect as iron is still necessary for a breastfed newborn, regardless of breastfeeding duration. Choice D is incorrect because adding iron to formula may not be necessary if the mother's iron stores were adequate.

Question 3 of 5

Which of the following newborn assessment findings is the most concerning to the newborn nursery nurse?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. A newborn not voiding in 24 hours is concerning as it may indicate a urinary tract issue. Failure to void can lead to complications like dehydration or renal dysfunction. Option B is normal as meconium is the first stool passed by newborns. Option C describes an umbilical hernia, which is common and usually resolves on its own. Option D describes polydactyly, an extra digit, which is a physical anomaly that may not necessarily pose immediate health risks.

Question 4 of 5

You are receiving report from the nightshift nurse. Which newborn should you assess first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Bilateral breath sounds and nasal flaring indicate respiratory distress, which is a priority assessment in a newborn. Nasal flaring suggests increased work of breathing, requiring prompt evaluation to prevent respiratory compromise. Choice A is incorrect as acrocyanosis is a common finding in newborns and not an urgent concern. Choice C is incorrect as breastfeeding is a normal activity for newborns. Choice D is incorrect as failing a hearing screen test does not present an immediate threat to the newborn's health.

Question 5 of 5

The hips of a newborn are examined for developmental dysplasia. Which clinical finding indicates an incomplete development of the acetabulum?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because asymmetric thigh and gluteal creases suggest incomplete development of the acetabulum in developmental dysplasia of the hip. This finding indicates a potential instability or abnormality in the hip joint. The other choices are incorrect because a negative Barlow test (A) indicates no dislocation, equal knee heights (B) are not indicative of hip dysplasia, and a negative Ortolani sign (C) suggests no hip dislocation during abduction.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions