Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a preterm newborn who is in an incubator to maintain a neutral thermal environment. The father of the newborn asks the nurse why this is necessary. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. Preterm newborns have a smaller body surface area than normal newborns.
• B. The added brown fat layer in a preterm newborn reduces his ability to generate heat.
• C. Preterm newborns lack adequate temperature control mechanisms.
• D. The heat in the incubator rapidly dries the sweat of preterm newborns.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because preterm newborns have immature temperature regulation mechanisms, making it difficult for them to maintain their body temperature. An incubator helps maintain a stable thermal environment. Choice A is incorrect as the body surface area is not the primary reason for needing an incubator. Choice B is incorrect because brown fat in preterm newborns actually helps generate heat. Choice D is incorrect as the purpose of the incubator is not to dry sweat but to regulate the newborn's temperature.

2. When checking for the Moro reflex in a newborn, what action should the nurse take?

• A. Hold the newborn vertically under arms and allow one foot to touch the table.
• B. Stimulate the pads of the newborn's hands with stroking or massage.
• C. Stimulate the soles of the newborn's feet on the outer lateral surface of each foot.
• D. Hold the newborn in a semi-sitting position, then allow the newborn's head and trunk to fall backward.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct action to check for the Moro reflex in a newborn is to hold the newborn in a semi-sitting position and then allow the newborn's head and trunk to fall backward. The Moro reflex is elicited by a sudden loss of support or a loud noise. The normal response involves symmetrical abduction and extension of the arms, followed by their return to the midline in an embracing motion. Choices A, B, and C do not describe the correct method for assessing the Moro reflex and are therefore incorrect.

3. A caregiver is learning about newborn safety. Which of the following statements by a parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will dress my baby in flame-retardant clothing.
• B. I will ensure a bib on my baby at night to keep her clothing dry.
• C. I will warm my baby's formula using the lowest setting in the microwave.
• D. I will cover the crib mattress with plastic to prevent staining.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Dressing a baby in flame-retardant clothing is crucial to prevent injuries, especially in case of accidental exposure to fire sources. This safety measure can provide an added layer of protection for the newborn. The other options do not directly address newborn safety concerns or best practices. Option B focuses on keeping clothing dry, which is not a primary safety concern. Option C poses a risk of overheating the formula, which can be dangerous for the baby. Option D, covering the crib mattress with plastic, may pose a suffocation hazard to the baby.

4. A healthcare provider is assisting with the care of a newborn immediately following birth. Which of the following nursing interventions is the highest priority?

• A. Initiating breastfeeding
• B. Performing the initial bath
• C. Giving a vitamin K injection
• D. Covering the newborn's head with a cap

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Covering the newborn's head with a cap is the highest priority immediately following birth to prevent heat loss. Newborns are at risk of hypothermia due to their immature thermoregulation, making it crucial to maintain their body temperature. By covering the newborn's head with a cap, heat loss through the head is minimized, helping to keep the baby warm and stable in the immediate post-birth period. Initiating breastfeeding, performing the initial bath, and giving a vitamin K injection are important interventions but are not as high a priority as ensuring the newborn's thermal stability.

5. A client reports unrelieved episiotomy pain 8 hours following a vaginal birth. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Apply an ice pack to the affected area.
• B. Offer a warm sitz bath.
• C. Provide a squeeze bottle of antiseptic solution.
• D. Place a hot pack on the perineum.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to apply an ice pack to the affected area. Ice packs help reduce swelling, inflammation, and provide pain relief post-episiotomy. Applying heat, as in a hot pack or warm sitz bath, can increase swelling and discomfort. Providing antiseptic solution in a squeeze bottle is not the first-line intervention for managing episiotomy pain, as the priority is pain relief and comfort.

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