Physiological NCLEX RN Questions Related

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The nurse provides a class to new mothers on newborn care. When teaching cord care, the nurse should instruct mothers to take which action?

  • A. If antibiotic ointment has been applied to the cord, it is not necessary to do anything else to it.
  • B. All that is necessary is to wash the cord with antibacterial soap and allow it to air-dry once a day.
  • C. Apply alcohol thoroughly to the cord, being careful not to move the cord because it will cause pain to the newborn infant.
  • D. Apply the prescribed cleansing agent to the cord, ensuring that all areas around the cord are cleaned two to three times a day.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The cord and base should be cleansed with alcohol (or another substance as prescribed) thoroughly, two to three times per day. The steps are (1) lift the cord; (2) wipe around the cord, starting at the top; (3) clean the base of the cord; and (4) fold the diaper below the umbilical cord to allow the cord to air-dry and prevent contamination from urine. Antibiotic ointment is not normally prescribed. Continuation of cord care is necessary until the cord falls off within 7 to 14 days. Water and soap are not necessary; in fact, the cord should be kept from getting wet. The infant does not feel pain in this area.