Maternal Newborn ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Maternal Newborn ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A postpartum client calls the pediatric clinic to report that her 4-day old female newborn has a spot of blood on her diaper. Which of the following statements made by the nurse is most appropriate?

  • A. Your newborn may have a urinary infection, continue to breastfeed frequently
  • B. Your newborn has jaundice so it may need phototherapy
  • C. This is a normal finding due to withdrawal of maternal hormones
  • D. Your baby has an immature immune system, continue to breastfeed frequently
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the spot of blood on the diaper of a 4-day old female newborn is a normal finding due to the withdrawal of maternal hormones. During pregnancy, the baby is exposed to maternal hormones, and after birth, the sudden decrease in these hormones can cause a temporary withdrawal bleeding. This is known as pseudomenstruation and is common in newborn girls. It is important for the nurse to reassure the mother that this is a normal and harmless occurrence.

Choice A is incorrect because urinary infection is not typically the cause of blood on the diaper in a newborn. Choice B is incorrect because jaundice does not typically present with blood in the diaper. Choice D is incorrect because while breastfeeding is important for the baby's immune system, it is not directly related to the presence of blood on the diaper in this case.