Nursing Elites

1. A client is scheduled for a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this test. What explanation should the nurse provide?

• A. This test screens for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities in the fetus.
• B. It assesses various markers of fetal well-being.
• C. This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus.
• D. It is a screening test for spinal defects in the fetus.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test is performed around 15-18 weeks of gestation to screen for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities in the fetus, not to assess fetal lung maturity, markers of fetal well-being, or Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the purpose of the MSAFP test. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the primary goal of this screening test.

2. A client at 8 weeks of gestation with iron deficiency anemia is prescribed iron supplements. Which beverage should the nurse reinforce the client to take the supplements with for better absorption?

• A. Ice water
• B. Low-fat or whole milk
• C. Tea or coffee
• D. Orange juice

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Orange juice.' Orange juice is recommended to be taken with iron supplements because vitamin C present in orange juice enhances iron absorption, improving the effectiveness of the supplement. It is essential to take iron supplements with a source of vitamin C to optimize iron absorption and address iron deficiency anemia. Ice water (Choice A), low-fat or whole milk (Choice B), and tea or coffee (Choice C) are not ideal choices to take with iron supplements as they do not contain vitamin C, which is crucial for enhancing iron absorption.

3. While caring for a newborn, a nurse auscultates an apical heart rate of 130/min. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Ask another nurse to verify the heart rate.
• B. Document this as an expected finding.
• C. Call the provider to further assess the newborn.
• D. Prepare the newborn for transport to the NICU.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An apical heart rate of 130/min is within the expected range for a newborn. It is not necessary to seek verification from another nurse, call the provider for further assessment, or prepare for NICU transport based on this heart rate. Documenting the heart rate as an expected finding is the appropriate action in this situation as it falls within the normal range for a newborn's heart rate.

4. When assessing a newborn with respiratory distress syndrome who received synthetic surfactant, which parameter should the nurse monitor to evaluate the newborn's condition?

• A. Oxygen saturation
• B. Body temperature
• C. Serum bilirubin
• D. Heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a newborn with respiratory distress syndrome who has received synthetic surfactant, monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. Oxygen saturation levels provide valuable information about the newborn's respiratory status and the adequacy of gas exchange. Changes in oxygen saturation can indicate improvements or deterioration in the newborn's condition following the administration of synthetic surfactant. Monitoring oxygen saturation helps the nurse assess the newborn's response to treatment and make timely interventions if needed. Body temperature, serum bilirubin, and heart rate are important parameters to monitor in newborns for other conditions but are not specific indicators of the effectiveness of synthetic surfactant in treating respiratory distress syndrome.

5. A parent is receiving discharge teaching from a nurse regarding caring for their newborn after a circumcision. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Apply slight pressure with a sterile gauze pad for mild bleeding.
• B. Inspect the circumcision site every 6 to 8 hours.
• C. Avoid using baby wipes containing alcohol to cleanse the penis with each diaper change.
• D. Clean the circumcision site daily using a warm, wet washcloth.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to apply slight pressure with a sterile gauze pad for mild bleeding. This helps to stop bleeding. If the bleeding persists, the parent should contact the healthcare provider for further guidance. While inspecting the circumcision site is important, checking every 6 to 8 hours might be too frequent and could disrupt healing. Using baby wipes containing alcohol can irritate the sensitive skin, so it is advised to avoid them. Cleaning the circumcision site daily is crucial, but excessive cleaning by removing yellow exudate daily is not necessary unless advised by the healthcare provider.

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