RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam Related

Review RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam related questions and content

A nurse is planning care immediately following birth for a newborn who has a myelomeningocele that is leaking cerebrospinal fluid. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

  • A. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics.
  • B. Monitor the rectal temperature every 4 hr.
  • C. Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine.
  • D. Prepare for surgical closure after 72 hr.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics. This is crucial in preventing infection, as the leaking cerebrospinal fluid puts the newborn at risk for meningitis. Antibiotics help reduce the risk of infection until surgical closure can be performed. Monitoring rectal temperature (B) is important but not the priority. Cleansing the site with povidone-iodine (C) may further irritate the area. Planning for surgical closure after 72 hr (D) is important, but immediate infection prevention is the priority.