ATI RN
Nursing Care of the Newborn Questions
Question 1 of 5
An infant has just been admitted to the newborn nursery after an uncomplicated delivery. Upon assessment, the nurse notes poor muscle tone and a temperature of 96°F axillary. What is the next course of action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct next course of action is to obtain a blood glucose reading (Choice A). Poor muscle tone and low temperature in a newborn can be indicative of hypoglycemia, which is a common issue in infants. By checking the blood glucose level, the healthcare provider can determine if hypoglycemia is the cause of the symptoms. This action allows for prompt intervention if needed. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not address the potential underlying issue of hypoglycemia. Resuscitation needs (Choice B) should only be considered if the infant's condition deteriorates. Calling for a transfer to the neonatal intensive care unit (Choice C) may not be necessary if the issue can be managed in the nursery. Placing warm blankets (Choice D) may help with temperature regulation but does not address the root cause of the symptoms.
Question 2 of 5
A mother brings her 4-week-old newborn into the clinic for a well-child check. She reports to the nurse that the newborn developed small white marks on her nose. What are these small white marks commonly called?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Milia. Milia are tiny, white, pearly bumps that commonly appear on a newborn's face, including the nose, due to blocked oil glands. They are harmless and typically disappear on their own. Explanation: 1. Milia are common in newborns, appearing as small white bumps on the nose and face. 2. They result from blocked oil glands and are not harmful. 3. Mongolian spots are bluish-gray birthmarks usually on the lower back or buttocks. 4. Erythema toxicum presents as red blotches on the skin shortly after birth. 5. Port-wine stain is a vascular birthmark that appears as a pink or red mark on the skin.
Question 3 of 5
Upon assessment, the RN notices that the newborn remains red at rest. Which laboratory value is most important for the nurse to evaluate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hematocrit. A red newborn at rest may indicate polycythemia, which increases the risk of hyperviscosity and complications. Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood, so evaluating it can help determine if the newborn has polycythemia. Glucose (A) is important but not directly related to the newborn's redness. Bilirubin (B) is crucial for evaluating jaundice, not redness. Sodium (C) levels are not typically associated with a red newborn at rest.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is preparing a new mother and newborn for discharge. Which statement indicates learning has occurred in the mother?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates understanding of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding every 2 to 3 hours. This statement shows the mother has learned about the recommended feeding schedule for newborns and the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. Choice A is incorrect because feeding every 3 hours does not emphasize exclusive breastfeeding. Choice C is incorrect as supplementing with formula can interfere with establishing breastfeeding. Choice D is incorrect because iron-fortified formula is not typically needed if the baby is breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months.
Question 5 of 5
Which assessment finding of a newborn in the newborn nursery warrants further investigation and notification to the physician?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the absence of meconium stool on day 2 of life can indicate a potential intestinal obstruction, which requires immediate medical attention. Meconium should be passed within the first 24-48 hours of life. A: Absent bowel sounds 15 minutes after delivery are normal as the gastrointestinal system may take some time to start functioning. B: Bluish discoloration on the buttocks area can be due to vascular changes and is usually not concerning. C: Regurgitation of small amounts of feedings is common in newborns and often not indicative of a serious issue.