Nursing Elites

1. Following the initial steps of resuscitation, a newborn remains apneic and cyanotic. What should you do next?

• A. begin ventilations with a bag-mask device.
• B. gently flick the soles of their feet for up to 60 seconds.
• C. immediately suction their mouth and nose.
• D. start CPR if the heart rate is less than 80 beats/min.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: If a newborn remains apneic and cyanotic after the initial resuscitation steps, the next appropriate action is to begin ventilations with a bag-mask device. This helps provide oxygen to the newborn and can be crucial in supporting their respiratory efforts. Option B of flicking the soles of their feet is not recommended in this scenario as the priority is addressing the respiratory distress. Option C of suctioning their mouth and nose is not the immediate next step if the newborn is not spontaneously breathing. Option D of starting CPR based only on the heart rate is not the first-line intervention for an apneic and cyanotic newborn.

2. After attaching the AED to a 7-year-old child in cardiac arrest, you push the analyze button and receive a shock advised message. After delivering the shock, you should:

• A. assess for a carotid pulse.
• B. open the airway and ventilate.
• C. immediately perform CPR.
• D. reanalyze the cardiac rhythm.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After delivering a shock, it is crucial to immediately resume CPR. CPR helps circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs until the AED prompts you to stop for further rhythm analysis. This continuous cycle of CPR and defibrillation maximizes the chances of restoring a normal cardiac rhythm and improving the child's chances of survival. Assessing for a carotid pulse is not necessary after a shock as pulse checks are often unreliable during resuscitation. Opening the airway and ventilating is not the immediate step after delivering a shock as CPR takes precedence. Reanalyzing the cardiac rhythm should be done only when prompted by the AED after a set period of CPR.

3. During the initial assessment of the newborn, which of the following data would be considered normal?

• A. Chest circumference 31.5 cm, head circumference 33.5 cm
• B. Chest circumference 30 cm, head circumference 29 cm
• C. Chest circumference 38 cm, head circumference 31.5 cm
• D. Chest circumference 32.5 cm, head circumference 36 cm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. During the initial assessment of a newborn, the average head circumference at birth is 32 to 37 cm, while the average chest circumference ranges from 30 to 35 cm. Normally, the head's circumference is about 2 cm greater than the chest circumference at birth. Choice A provides measurements of chest circumference 31.5 cm and head circumference 33.5 cm, both falling within the normal range in terms of actual size and relative size. Choices B, C, and D do not align with the typical measurements seen in a healthy newborn. Choice B has both circumferences below the average range, choice C has the chest circumference above the average, and choice D has the head circumference notably higher than the chest circumference, which is not typical for a newborn.

4. A new mother expresses concern about her baby's frequent hiccups. What should the nurse explain about newborn hiccups?

• A. Hiccups are a sign of respiratory distress in newborns.
• B. Hiccups indicate the baby is overeating.
• C. Hiccups are common and usually harmless in newborns.
• D. Hiccups are caused by a lack of burping.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Newborn hiccups are common and usually harmless. They are typically caused by the baby's immature diaphragm and tend to resolve on their own. It is essential for parents to understand that hiccups in newborns are a normal phenomenon and do not necessarily indicate any underlying health issue. Choice A is incorrect because hiccups are not a sign of respiratory distress in newborns. Choice B is incorrect as hiccups do not indicate the baby is overeating. Choice D is also incorrect as hiccups are not solely caused by a lack of burping.

5. The healthcare provider is teaching a new mother how to care for her newborn's umbilical cord. Which instruction should be included?

• A. Keep the cord dry and exposed to air
• B. Clean the cord with alcohol at every diaper change
• C. Cover the cord with a sterile dressing
• D. Submerge the cord in water during baths

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Keeping the umbilical cord dry and exposed to air is the correct instruction because it promotes faster healing. Moisture can delay the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Cleaning the cord with alcohol at every diaper change or covering it with a sterile dressing can actually impede the healing process by preventing airflow. Submerging the cord in water during baths is not recommended as it can introduce moisture and increase the risk of infection.

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