Nursing Elites

1. During a prenatal visit, the LPN/LVN discusses with a client the effects of smoking on the fetus. When compared with nonsmokers, mothers who smoke during pregnancy tend to produce infants who have

• A. lower Apgar scores.
• B. lower birth weights.
• C. respiratory distress.
• D. a higher rate of congenital anomalies.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When mothers smoke during pregnancy, it is associated with intrauterine growth restriction, which leads to lower birth weights in infants. Maternal smoking can restrict the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, affecting its growth and development. This can result in babies being born with lower birth weights, which can have various health implications for the newborn. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as smoking during pregnancy is primarily linked to intrauterine growth restriction and lower birth weights in infants, rather than lower Apgar scores, respiratory distress, or a higher rate of congenital anomalies.

2. At 14-weeks gestation, a client arrives at the Emergency Center complaining of a dull pain in the right lower quadrant of her abdomen. The LPN/LVN obtains a blood sample and initiates an IV. Thirty minutes after admission, the client reports feeling a sharp abdominal pain and shoulder pain. Assessment findings include diaphoresis, a heart rate of 120 beats/minute, and a blood pressure of 86/48. Which action should the nurse implement next?

• A. Check the hematocrit results.
• B. Administer pain medication.
• C. Increase the rate of IV fluids.
• D. Monitor the client for contractions.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The client's symptoms suggest hypovolemic shock, possibly due to an ectopic pregnancy. Increasing IV fluids is crucial to stabilize the client by improving blood pressure and perfusion. This intervention helps address the underlying issue of hypovolemia and supports the client's hemodynamic status, which takes priority in this emergent situation.

3. A father watching the admission of his newborn to the nursery notices that eye ointment is placed in the infant's eyes. He asks what is the purpose of the ointment. The nurse would be correct in stating that the purpose of the ointment is:

• A. Prevent eye infection.
• B. Dilate the pupil so the red reflex can be visualized.
• C. Clear the infant's vision.
• D. Prevent herpes infection.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Prevent eye infection. Eye ointment, usually containing erythromycin, is applied to prevent neonatal conjunctivitis, which can be caused by bacteria present in the birth canal. It is not used to dilate the pupil, clear the infant's vision, or prevent herpes infection.

4. In developing a teaching plan for expectant parents, the nurse plans to include information about when the parents can expect the infant's fontanels to close. The LPN/LVN bases the explanation on knowledge that for the normal newborn, the

• A. anterior fontanel closes at 2 to 4 months and the posterior by the end of the first week.
• B. anterior fontanel closes at 5 to 7 months and the posterior by the end of the second week.
• C. anterior fontanel closes at 8 to 11 months and the posterior by the end of the first month.
• D. anterior fontanel closes at 12 to 18 months and the posterior by the end of the second month.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The anterior fontanel typically closes between 12 to 18 months, while the posterior fontanel usually closes by the end of the second month. It is important for parents to know these timeframes as it helps in monitoring the normal growth and development of their newborn. Delayed closure of fontanels may indicate potential health issues, and early closure may also warrant further evaluation by healthcare providers.

5. The healthcare provider receives a newborn within the first minutes after vaginal delivery and intervenes to establish adequate respirations. What priority issue should the healthcare provider address to ensure the newborn's survival?

• A. Heat loss.
• B. Fluid balance.
• C. Bleeding tendencies.
• D. Hypoglycemia.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Immediately after birth, newborns are at high risk for heat loss, which can lead to cold stress and associated complications. Maintaining thermal regulation is crucial to prevent hypothermia and ensure the newborn's survival. By addressing heat loss as a priority issue, the healthcare provider can help stabilize the newborn's temperature and support overall well-being. Choices B, C, and D are not the priority issues immediately after birth. While fluid balance, bleeding tendencies, and hypoglycemia are important considerations in newborn care, heat loss is the primary concern right after delivery to prevent complications related to thermal regulation.

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