ATI RN
Postpartum Hormonal Changes Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse notes that a 6-hour-old neonate has cyanotic hands and feet. Which of the following actions by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the appropriate action for the nurse to take is to swaddle the baby in a blanket (Option C). Explanation of correct answer: Swaddling the baby in a blanket helps to provide warmth and comfort, which can help improve circulation and alleviate the cyanosis in the hands and feet of the newborn. Newborns often have difficulty regulating their body temperature, and swaddling can help maintain their warmth and keep them calm. Explanation of why others are wrong: A) Placing the child in an isolette (Option A) may not address the immediate need to provide warmth and comfort to the baby. B) Administering oxygen (Option B) may not be necessary as the cyanosis in this case is likely due to peripheral vasoconstriction rather than a lack of oxygen. D) Applying a pulse oximeter (Option D) may provide information about oxygen saturation but does not address the underlying cause of cyanosis in the extremities. Educational context: Understanding the normal physiological changes that occur in newborns is crucial for healthcare providers working with neonates. In the first hours after birth, infants may exhibit cyanosis in their hands and feet due to peripheral vasoconstriction, which is a normal response to the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. Providing warmth and comfort through swaddling can help alleviate this transient condition and support the newborn's adjustment to the outside environment.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is teaching a mother how to care for her 3-day-old son's circumcised penis. Which of the following actions demonstrates that the mother has learned the information?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of caring for a 3-day-old circumcised penis, the correct action is option D, which states that the mother replaces the dry sterile dressing before putting on the diaper. This is the correct choice because it is essential to keep the circumcision site clean and dry to prevent infection and promote healing. By replacing the dry sterile dressing, the mother is ensuring that the area remains protected and is not exposed to contaminants from the diaper or clothing. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they involve actions that can be harmful or not recommended for caring for a circumcised penis in a newborn. Using hydrogen peroxide, antifungal ointment, or squeezing soapy water directly on the glans can irritate the sensitive skin, disrupt the healing process, and increase the risk of infection. From an educational perspective, it is crucial to teach parents the correct techniques for caring for their newborn's circumcision site to prevent complications. Emphasizing the importance of keeping the area clean, dry, and protected can help parents understand how to properly care for their baby and promote optimal healing. Providing clear instructions and demonstrations can empower parents to confidently care for their newborn's circumcision site.
Question 3 of 5
A female African American baby has been admitted into the nursery. Which of the following physiological findings would the nurse assess as normal?Select one that doesn't apply
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Sharply demarcated dark red area on the face. This finding is known as a mongolian spot, which is a common and benign pigmented birthmark in African American infants. It typically appears on the lower back or buttocks rather than the face. Option A, purple-colored patches on the buttocks and torso, describes mongolian spots, which are normal in African American babies and usually appear in areas like the buttocks, not the face. Option B, bilateral whitish discharge from the breasts, is known as witch's milk and is a normal physiological response to maternal hormones. Option C, bloody discharge from the vagina, is abnormal in a newborn and should be further assessed. Educationally, understanding normal variations in newborns based on ethnicity is crucial for healthcare providers to provide appropriate care and avoid unnecessary interventions. Recognizing normal physiological findings helps prevent unwarranted parental concern and unnecessary medical investigations.
Question 4 of 5
A neonate is in the active alert behavioral state. Which of the following would the nurse expect to see?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the postpartum period, newborns go through various behavioral states, one of which is the active alert state. In this state, infants are awake, calm, and attentive. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Baby is wide awake and attending to a picture. Option A is incorrect because a baby in the active alert state is not typically showing signs of hunger and frustration. Option B is incorrect as whimpering and crying are not characteristic of the active alert state. Option D is incorrect because a baby in the active alert state is not asleep but rather awake and attentive. Educationally, understanding the different behavioral states of newborns is crucial for nurses and caregivers to appropriately respond to the infant's needs. Recognizing these states can help establish bonding, promote healthy interactions, and support the baby's development. The active alert state is an optimal time for interaction and stimulation, making it an important concept for healthcare professionals working with newborns to grasp.
Question 5 of 5
The nursery charge nurse is assessing a 1-day-old female on morning rounds. Which of the following findings should be reported to the neonatologist as soon as possible? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Grunting during expiration. Grunting during expiration in a 1-day-old neonate can be a sign of respiratory distress, potentially indicating an underlying respiratory issue that requires immediate attention from the neonatologist. This finding is critical to report promptly to ensure timely intervention and prevent further complications. Option A) Blood in the diaper is not typically a concerning finding in a 1-day-old neonate as it could be due to normal physiological processes or minor issues like diaper rash. Option C) Deep red coloring on one side of the body with pale pink on the other side could be a normal variation in skin tone and is not necessarily indicative of an urgent medical issue. Option D) Lacy and mottled appearance over the entire chest and abdomen is a common finding in newborns due to their developing circulatory system and is usually considered normal in the immediate postpartum period. Educationally, it is important for healthcare providers working in the neonatal setting to be able to recognize and differentiate between normal variations and potentially serious signs in the newborn. This case highlights the significance of prompt assessment and communication of abnormal findings to ensure the well-being of the neonate.