Nursing Care of the Newborn Quizlet Related

Review Nursing Care of the Newborn Quizlet related questions and content

In preparing a family for discharge from the perinatal unit, which method of nail care does the nurse teach as the preferred method?

  • A. Cutting the nails with sharp scissors
  • B. Filing the nails with a fine emery board
  • C. Letting the nails break off naturally
  • D. Wrapping the infant's hands in mittens
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Several options exist for nail care to keep the infant from scratching her face. The nails can be cut, but there is a risk of damaging the delicate skin around the nail. This is best done while the baby sleeps. Letting the nails break off is not a good option, as the child may injure herself before they break. Covering the hands with mittens or a tee shirt is a possible option, but does not allow the child to suck on the fingers for self-soothing. The best option is to file the nails gently with a fine-grained emery board.