ATI RN
Maternal and Newborn Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A postpartum client calls the pediatric clinic to report that her 4-day old female newborn has a spot of blood on her diaper. Which of the following statements made by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate statement by the nurse is option C: "This is a normal finding due to withdrawal of maternal hormones." This response is correct because it addresses the common occurrence of a small amount of blood in a newborn's diaper, known as pseudomenstruation, which is caused by the withdrawal of maternal hormones after birth. Option A is incorrect because blood in the diaper is not typically indicative of a urinary infection in a newborn. Option B is incorrect as jaundice does not cause blood in the diaper. Option D is also incorrect because while breast milk does provide immune support, it is not directly related to the presence of blood in the diaper. Educationally, understanding normal newborn physiology and common variations in the immediate postpartum period is crucial for nurses working in maternal and newborn care. It is important for nurses to provide accurate information and reassurance to parents to promote their understanding and confidence in caring for their newborn.
Question 2 of 5
After her baby's birth a patient wishes to begin breastfeeding. The nurse assists the client by:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In maternal and newborn nursing, assisting a patient with breastfeeding is a crucial skill for nurses. The correct answer, option D, involves touching the infant's cheek adjacent to the nipple to elicit the rooting reflex. This reflex helps the baby turn towards the nipple and initiate breastfeeding effectively, promoting successful latching and milk transfer. Option A is incorrect because positioning the infant to grasp the nipple to express milk is not the appropriate way to facilitate breastfeeding. It is essential for the baby to latch correctly for successful breastfeeding. Option B is incorrect as giving the infant a bottle first can interfere with establishing breastfeeding and can lead to nipple confusion for the newborn, affecting their ability to breastfeed effectively. Option C is incorrect because leaving the mother and infant alone without providing guidance and support on proper breastfeeding techniques may hinder the initiation of successful breastfeeding and could lead to challenges such as poor latch, ineffective milk transfer, and decreased milk supply. Educationally, it is essential for nurses to understand the importance of supporting and educating mothers on proper breastfeeding techniques to promote successful breastfeeding outcomes. By knowing how to elicit the rooting reflex and assist with proper latch, nurses can empower mothers to breastfeed confidently and establish a strong breastfeeding relationship with their newborns.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse teaches a new mother that neonatal weight loss in the first 3 days of life is most often the result of:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In maternal and newborn nursing, understanding neonatal weight loss in the first few days of life is crucial for providing appropriate care and education to new mothers. The correct answer, option D, "Excretion of fluid via lungs, urinary bladder, and bowels," is the most common reason for neonatal weight loss in the initial days after birth. This weight loss occurs as newborns transition from receiving nutrients intravenously in the womb to feeding orally. They excrete excess fluid through respiration, urine, and stool, leading to a decrease in weight. Option A, "Allergy to formula," is incorrect because neonatal weight loss in the first few days is generally not related to allergies, especially since newborns are not typically introduced to formula immediately after birth. Option B, "a hypoglycemic response," is also incorrect as neonatal weight loss is not primarily due to low blood sugar levels in the first 3 days but rather fluid excretion. Option C, "Inadequate breast or formula feeding," is not the main reason for initial neonatal weight loss as newborns naturally lose some weight as they adjust to feeding and excreting. Educationally, it is important for nurses to teach new mothers about the physiological processes influencing neonatal weight loss to alleviate their concerns and ensure they understand the normal course of newborn development. By explaining that initial weight loss is primarily due to fluid shifts and excretion, nurses can empower mothers to continue feeding their newborns as recommended without unnecessary worry about weight fluctuations. This knowledge also helps nurses identify abnormal weight loss patterns that may require further evaluation and intervention.
Question 4 of 5
Three hours after birth, a newborn of a mother with diabetes becomes jittery, has weak, high-pitched cry , and exhibits irregular respirations. The nurse recognizes that these signs are often associated with:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Hypoglycemia. In newborns of mothers with diabetes, there is a risk of hypoglycemia due to the sudden cessation of the maternal glucose supply post-birth. The symptoms described – jitteriness, weak cry, high-pitched cry, and irregular respirations – are classic signs of hypoglycemia in neonates. Option A) Hypovolemia is unlikely in this scenario as there are no signs of volume depletion such as poor perfusion or tachycardia. Option B) Hypocalcemia typically presents with symptoms like seizures, not jitteriness and weak cry. Option D) Hyperglycemia would not cause these specific symptoms; instead, it might lead to lethargy or poor feeding. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses in maternal and newborn care to understand the unique risks faced by infants of diabetic mothers, such as hypoglycemia, and to be able to recognize and manage these conditions promptly to prevent potential complications like seizures or long-term neurological issues. Early detection and intervention are key in ensuring the well-being of these newborns.
Question 5 of 5
During the assessment of a newborn, it is most important for the nurse to report a:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the assessment of a newborn, the most important finding to report is a breathing pattern that is diaphragmatic with sternal retractions (Option D). This indicates respiratory distress, which can be a critical issue in a newborn and requires immediate attention to ensure adequate oxygenation. Diaphragmatic breathing and sternal retractions suggest increased work of breathing and potential respiratory compromise, making it crucial to notify the healthcare team promptly. Option A, a temperature of 97.7 degrees Fahrenheit, falls within the normal range for a newborn and may not require immediate reporting. Option B, a pale pink, rust-colored stain in the diaper, could indicate urate crystals or mild dehydration, which are common in newborns and usually resolve without intervention. Option C, a heart rate dropping to 120 beats/min, while slightly lower than the normal range for a newborn, may not be as concerning as respiratory distress. In an educational context, understanding the significance of different assessment findings in newborns is crucial for nurses working in maternal and newborn care. Recognizing signs of respiratory distress and knowing when to escalate care is essential to ensure the well-being of the newborn. This question highlights the importance of thorough assessment skills and prompt reporting of critical findings in neonatal care.