ATI RN
Nursing Care of the Newborn Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse determines the gestational age of an infant to be 40 weeks. Which characteristics are most likely to be observed? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this question, option A is correct because at 40 weeks of gestational age, the testes of a male infant are pendulous and the scrotum has deep rugae due to the full development of the male reproductive system. This is a characteristic seen in full-term newborns. Option B is incorrect because plantar creases over the entire sole are typically observed in preterm infants, not in full-term infants like the one in this scenario. Option C is incorrect because abundant lanugo over the shoulders and back is a characteristic of a preterm infant, not a full-term infant at 40 weeks. Option D is incorrect because vernix, the white, cheesy substance covering the skin of a newborn, is usually well-distributed over the body of a preterm infant, not a full-term infant. Educationally, understanding the characteristics of newborns at different gestational ages is crucial for nurses caring for infants. By knowing these distinctions, nurses can provide appropriate care and anticipate any potential complications based on the infant's gestational age. This knowledge helps in promoting optimal outcomes for newborns and ensuring their well-being.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse completes an initial newborn examination. The nurses findings include the following: heart rate 136 beats/minute; respiratory rate 64 breaths/minute; temperature 98.2F (36.8C). The nurse also documents a heart murmur,absence of bowel sounds symmetry of ears and eyes no grunting or nasal flaring and full range of movement of all extremities. Which finding requires immediate consultation with the health-care provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the finding that requires immediate consultation with the health-care provider is "Absent bowel sounds" (Option A). Absence of bowel sounds in a newborn may indicate an underlying serious condition like intestinal obstruction or ileus, which requires prompt evaluation and intervention to prevent complications. The other options are not as urgent: - Heart murmur: It is common for newborns to have innocent heart murmurs due to physiological changes after birth. Most innocent murmurs resolve on their own without treatment. - Respiratory rate: A respiratory rate of 64 breaths/minute falls within the normal range for a newborn, so it does not warrant immediate consultation. - Temperature: The newborn's temperature of 98.2F (36.8C) is within the normal range, so it does not pose an immediate concern. Understanding these findings is crucial for nurses caring for newborns as it helps in early identification of potential health issues and timely intervention, ensuring optimal care and outcomes for the newborns. Being able to differentiate between normal variations and concerning findings is essential in providing safe and effective nursing care to newborns.
Question 3 of 5
A student nurse is verbalizing disappointment in a new mothers seeming lack of interest in her newborn baby. The student complains to the registered nurse that the mother just wants to sleep and have someone else care for the infant. What response by the registered nurse is best?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "The mother may be completely exhausted from the childbirth experience," is the best response by the registered nurse. This answer demonstrates empathy and understanding towards the new mother's situation. Childbirth can be physically and emotionally draining, and it is common for mothers to feel exhausted and overwhelmed in the immediate postpartum period. By acknowledging the physical and emotional toll of childbirth, the nurse shows compassion and offers a plausible explanation for the mother's behavior. Option A, "Assess closely; we may need to call social work," is not the best response because it jumps to conclusions and escalates the situation without considering the new mother's perspective or circumstances. It is important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding before considering involving social work. Option B, "Don't judge other people until you have had a baby," is not an appropriate response as it dismisses the student nurse's concerns and fails to provide support or guidance in dealing with the situation. It is important to address the student nurse's feelings in a constructive and educational manner rather than resorting to dismissive statements. Option D, "We have to accept that everyone's experience is different," while acknowledging individual differences, does not directly address the student nurse's concerns or provide insight into the possible reasons behind the mother's behavior. It is essential to offer a more specific and supportive response in this situation to help guide the student nurse in understanding and empathizing with the new mother's situation. In an educational context, it is crucial for nursing students to learn how to approach and communicate effectively with patients, especially in sensitive situations like postpartum care. Understanding the physical and emotional challenges faced by new mothers is vital for providing holistic and compassionate care. By choosing option C, the nurse can role model empathetic communication and promote a patient-centered approach to care, which are essential skills for nursing students to develop in their practice.
Question 4 of 5
When assessing a newborn baby
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should observe standard precautions when handling a neonate until all blood and amniotic fluid has been removed to avoid possible infection. Then the nurse can take the baby and suction the babys mouth and then the nares if needed. Auscultating the babys heart and lungs will occur later. The parents may not name the baby immediately but even if they have recording the name would not take priority over using standard precautions to prevent the spread of disease.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is watching new parents suction their newborn. The baby begins gagging. What action should the nurse demonstrate to the parents?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to demonstrate to the parents when the newborn starts gagging during suctioning is to turn the baby's head to the side (Option C). This is the correct choice because turning the baby's head to the side helps prevent aspiration if the baby vomits, allowing the secretions to flow out of the mouth instead of blocking the airway. Option A, picking the baby up and comforting her, is incorrect because in this situation, the priority is to ensure the baby's airway is clear and safe. Option B, placing the baby on her back, is also incorrect as this position can increase the risk of aspiration if the baby vomits. Option D, wiping secretions out with a cloth, is not the best choice as it may not effectively clear the airway in case of vomiting. From an educational perspective, it is important for nurses and parents to understand the correct positioning and actions to take in such situations to ensure the newborn's safety and prevent potential complications. Proper education on newborn care, including suctioning techniques and airway management, is crucial for healthcare providers and parents to promote the well-being of the newborn.