ATI RN
Nursing Care of the Newborn Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse must administer erythromycin ophthalmic ointment to a newborn after birth. The nurse should:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of newborn care, administering erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is a standard practice to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum, which is a bacterial infection that can lead to blindness if left untreated. The correct answer, option B, instructs the nurse to cleanse the newborn's eyes from the inner to outer canthus before applying the ointment. This technique is crucial to remove any debris or secretions that may harbor bacteria, ensuring the ointment can effectively reach the eye and provide protection. Option A is incorrect because the timing of administration is typically within the first hour of birth, not necessarily within the first 15 minutes. Option C is incorrect as applying the ointment directly over the cornea can be harmful and cause irritation. Option D is incorrect as flushing the eyes after instillation can potentially wash away the protective ointment before it has a chance to take effect. In an educational context, it is essential for nursing students to understand the rationale behind the correct administration of medications to newborns to ensure optimal outcomes and prevent complications. Emphasizing the correct technique of cleansing the eyes before applying the ointment reinforces the principles of aseptic technique and safe medication administration in neonatal care. This knowledge is crucial for student nurses to provide evidence-based, safe, and effective care to newborns in their practice.
Question 2 of 5
Vitamin K is given to the newborn to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and newborn care, the administration of Vitamin K to newborns is crucial for enhancing the ability of blood to clot. Newborns are born with low levels of Vitamin K, which is essential for the production of clotting factors. Without adequate Vitamin K, newborns are at risk of developing a rare but serious bleeding disorder called Vitamin K deficiency bleeding. By providing Vitamin K at birth, healthcare providers can prevent this potential complication and ensure that the newborn's blood can clot effectively to prevent excessive bleeding. Regarding the incorrect options: A) Vitamin K does not directly reduce bilirubin levels. Bilirubin is a product of the breakdown of red blood cells and is not influenced by Vitamin K. B) Vitamin K does not increase the production of red blood cells. Its primary role is in the clotting cascade. D) Stimulating the formation of surfactant is not a function of Vitamin K. Surfactant is a substance that helps keep the air sacs in the lungs open and is not related to clotting factors. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind giving Vitamin K to newborns is essential for nursing students caring for newborns. It highlights the importance of preventing potential bleeding disorders and ensuring the newborn's health and well-being. By grasping this concept, students can provide safe and effective care to newborns, emphasizing the significance of administering Vitamin K as a standard practice in newborn care.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a woman who delivered her first child 2 days ago. The nurse understands that additional information is needed if the client makes which statement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) "My bleeding will remain red for about a month." This statement indicates a misunderstanding of postpartum bleeding. It is essential for the nurse to clarify this misconception because postpartum bleeding typically transitions from bright red to pinkish to yellowish-white over the course of a few weeks, not remaining red for a month. This information is crucial for the woman's understanding of what to expect post-delivery. Option A) "The flow will increase if I am too active" is incorrect because being active can actually help decrease postpartum bleeding by promoting uterine contractions. Option B) "I should expect a lighter flow next week" is incorrect as postpartum bleeding typically decreases gradually over several weeks, not necessarily becoming lighter by the following week. Option D) "I will be able to use a pantiliner in a day or two" is incorrect because postpartum bleeding is usually heavier initially and may require more absorbent pads than a pantiliner in the first few days. Educationally, understanding postpartum bleeding patterns is crucial for nurses caring for postpartum women. Providing accurate information can help new mothers manage their expectations and monitor their postpartum recovery effectively. It also ensures that any abnormal bleeding is identified promptly, promoting overall maternal well-being.
Question 4 of 5
The community nurse is meeting a new mother for the first time. The client delivered her first child 5 days ago after a 12-hour labor. Neither the mother nor the infant had any complications during the birth or postpartum period. Which statement by the client would indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing postpartum blues?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) "One minute I'm laughing and the next I'm crying." This statement indicates the client is experiencing postpartum blues, which is characterized by mood swings, tearfulness, and feelings of sadness or irritability. This emotional rollercoaster is common in the days following childbirth due to hormonal changes and adjustment to the new role of motherhood. Option B) "My husband is helping out by changing the baby at night" is incorrect as it indicates support and assistance from the partner, which is a positive aspect of the postpartum period. Option C) "Breastfeeding is going quite well now that the engorgement is gone" is incorrect as it focuses on a positive aspect of breastfeeding success and resolution of engorgement. Option D) "I am so happy and blessed to have my new baby" is incorrect as it reflects a positive and joyful sentiment, not indicative of postpartum blues. Educationally, understanding the difference between normal postpartum adjustment, postpartum blues, and postpartum depression is crucial for nurses caring for new mothers. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of postpartum blues allows for early intervention and support to prevent the development of more severe postpartum mood disorders. Nurses play a vital role in assessing, educating, and supporting new mothers during this vulnerable period.
Question 5 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.