A newborn's parents tell the nurse that their baby is already trying to walk. How should the nurse respond?
- A. Encourage the parents to report this to the healthcare provider.
- B. Acknowledge the parents' observation.
- C. Schedule the newborn for further neurological testing.
- D. Explain the newborn's normal stepping reflex.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When parents report that their newborn is trying to walk, the nurse should understand that newborns exhibit a stepping reflex, which is a normal developmental response. Explaining this reflex to the parents helps them understand that it is a typical behavior seen in newborns rather than true attempts to walk. Encouraging the parents to report this to the healthcare provider (Choice A) may cause unnecessary concern since the stepping reflex is a normal part of newborn development. Acknowledging the parents' observation (Choice B) is a good communication strategy but providing education on the normal reflex is essential. Scheduling the newborn for further neurological testing (Choice C) is not indicated in this scenario as the stepping reflex is a typical finding in newborns.
You may also like to solve these questions
A 6-week-old infant diagnosed with pyloric stenosis has recently developed projectile vomiting. Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the infant is becoming dehydrated?
- A. Weak cry without tears.
- B. Bulging fontanel.
- C. Visible peristaltic wave.
- D. Palpable mass in the right upper quadrant.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In infants, a weak cry without tears is a classic sign of dehydration. Tears are produced by the lacrimal glands, and reduced tear production is a result of dehydration. This assessment finding should alert the nurse to the infant's dehydration status, requiring prompt intervention to prevent further complications.
After breastfeeding for 10 minutes at each breast, a new mother calls the nurse to the postpartum room to help change the newborn's diaper. As the mother begins the diaper change, the newborn spits up the breast milk. What action should the nurse implement first?
- A. Wipe away the spit-up and assist the mother with the diaper change.
- B. Sit the newborn upright and burp by rubbing or patting the upper back.
- C. Place the newborn in a position with the head lower than the feet.
- D. Turn the newborn to the side and use bulb suction for the mouth and nares.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: After a newborn spits up breast milk following feeding, the priority action for the nurse is to sit the newborn upright and burp by rubbing or patting the upper back. This position helps release trapped air and reduces the likelihood of further spit-up or aspiration. It is essential to address this first to prevent potential complications and ensure the newborn's comfort and safety.
A client at 28 weeks gestation calls the antepartum clinic and reports experiencing a small amount of bright red vaginal bleeding without uterine contractions or abdominal pain. What instruction should the LPN/LVN provide?
- A. Come to the clinic today for an ultrasound.
- B. Go immediately to the emergency room.
- C. Lie on your left side for about one hour and see if the bleeding stops.
- D. Bring a urine specimen to the lab tomorrow to determine if you have a urinary tract infection.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Bright red vaginal bleeding without pain could indicate placental issues such as previa. An ultrasound is necessary to evaluate the cause. It is important to rule out potential serious conditions like placental previa, which can lead to further complications for both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, prompt evaluation through an ultrasound at the clinic is essential for appropriate management and ensuring the well-being of the client and her baby.
A 10-year-old is admitted to the orthopedic unit with a diagnosis of slipped femoral capital epiphysis (SFCE). What focus should the nurse include in this child's plan of care?
- A. Ambulation with a walking cast.
- B. Pin and incision care after surgery.
- C. Use of injections for pain control.
- D. Administration of growth hormone.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the case of slipped femoral capital epiphysis, surgical intervention is often required. Post-surgery care is crucial to prevent complications such as infection and ensure proper healing. This care includes monitoring and managing pin and incision sites for signs of infection, promoting wound healing, and preventing postoperative complications. The focus on pin and incision care is essential for the child's recovery and overall well-being.
What action should the nurse take if an infant, who was born yesterday weighing 7.5 lbs (3,402 grams), weighs 7 lbs (3,175 grams) today?
- A. Inform and assure the mother that this is normal weight loss.
- B. Encourage the mother to increase the frequency of breastfeeding.
- C. After verifying the accuracy of weight, notify the healthcare provider.
- D. Monitor the stool and urine output of the neonate for the last 24 hours.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to inform and assure the mother that this weight loss is normal. Newborns can lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first few days after birth, which is attributed to fluid loss and adjustment to life outside the womb. This weight loss is typically regained within the first two weeks of life. It is crucial for the nurse to educate and provide reassurance to the mother about this common occurrence in newborns.