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.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Wash in warm soapy water daily or after each use. This method is recommended as it effectively removes any residue, dirt, or bacteria from the bulb syringe. Cleaning the syringe daily or after each use helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensures it remains hygienic for future use. Boiling the syringe (choice A) may damage the materials and is not necessary after every use. Microwaving in warm water (choice B) may not effectively clean the syringe. Wiping with alcohol prep (choice D) may not be sufficient to remove all contaminants.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because an umbilical cord with one artery and two veins is indicative of a congenital anomaly, which can lead to serious health issues such as heart defects or kidney problems. The umbilical cord normally has two arteries and one vein. Option B, a respiratory rate of 35 breaths per minute, is within the normal range for a newborn. Option C, pink body with blue extremities, is a common finding in newborns due to their immature circulatory system. Option D, no retractions or grunting, is a positive sign as retractions and grunting can indicate respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: jaundice. Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between the skull and periosteum of a newborn, often caused by birth trauma. This blood breakdown can lead to an increase in bilirubin levels, causing jaundice. Infection (choice A) is not directly associated with cephalohematoma. Caput succedaneum (choice C) is a scalp swelling that resolves on its own and is not linked to cephalohematoma. Erythema toxicum (choice D) is a benign rash common in newborns and is not related to cephalohematoma or jaundice.