A premature infant has been admitted to the NICU for both respiratory and nutritional support. When should the nurse begin discharge teaching to the family?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because discharge teaching should start as early as possible and continue throughout the admission to ensure the family receives adequate education and support. Starting early allows for more time to address any concerns, teach necessary skills, and build confidence in caring for the premature infant. This approach promotes better outcomes for both the infant and the family. Choice A is incorrect because waiting for the infant to meet specific goals may delay essential education and support for the family. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on a specific medical intervention rather than comprehensive teaching. Choice C is incorrect because interest alone may not indicate readiness or understanding of the care required for a premature infant.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Demonstrating successful G-tube feeds indicates understanding and ability to provide necessary nutrition to the infant. Step 2: Correct feeding times show adherence to the prescribed schedule for optimal care. Step 3: Successful demonstration implies comprehension of G-tube feed technique and importance of consistency. Step 4: This knowledge ensures the infant receives proper nutrition and contributes to their overall well-being. Summary: Choice A is correct as it demonstrates the family's readiness to provide essential care for the infant. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not address the core aspect of ensuring proper nutrition and care through successful G-tube feeds.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Small for gestational age. This term describes an infant born with a birth weight below the 10th percentile for gestational age, indicating intrauterine growth restriction. This term specifically addresses the infant's size in relation to their gestational age, distinguishing it from other choices. A: Appropriate for gestational age refers to infants whose birth weight falls within the normal range for their gestational age, not below the 10th percentile. B: Failure to thrive is a broader term encompassing various factors affecting a child's growth and development, not specifically related to birth weight percentile. D: Infant born to mother of gestational diabetes pertains to a specific maternal condition that may affect the infant's health but does not directly address the infant's birth weight percentile.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Appropriate for gestational age. Newborns who are appropriate for gestational age are least at risk for developing persistent pulmonary hypertension because they have not experienced intrauterine growth restriction or other complications that can lead to lung problems. Being born late or postdates (A) can increase the risk of complications, including pulmonary hypertension. Being born to a mother with gestational diabetes (B) can also increase the risk due to potential metabolic issues. Meconium aspiration (D) can lead to respiratory distress and increase the risk of pulmonary hypertension.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stop feeds. This is the first intervention because neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious condition that requires immediate action to prevent further complications. Stopping feeds helps reduce intestinal inflammation and allows the bowel to rest. This step is crucial in managing NEC and preventing perforation. Obtaining a blood gas or checking electrolytes can provide valuable information but are not as urgent as stopping feeds. Calling the practitioner is important but should come after initiating the immediate intervention of stopping feeds.