Nursing Elites

1. A newborn was delivered vaginally and experienced a tight nuchal cord. Which of the following clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe?

• A. Bruising over the buttocks
• B. Hard nodules on the roof of the mouth
• C. Petechiae over the head
• D. Bilateral periauricular papillomas

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a newborn experiences a tight nuchal cord during delivery, it can lead to petechiae, which are small red or purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding under the skin. These petechiae may appear over the head, face, and neck due to the pressure of the cord. It is essential for the nurse to recognize this as a possible consequence and monitor the newborn for any signs of complications. Bruising over the buttocks (Choice A) is not typically associated with a tight nuchal cord. Hard nodules on the roof of the mouth (Choice B) are more indicative of Epstein pearls or Bohn's nodules, which are considered normal findings in newborns. Bilateral periauricular papillomas (Choice D) are not related to a tight nuchal cord but are seen in congenital syphilis.

2. During newborn gestational age assessment, which finding should be recorded as part of this assessment on the newborn?

• A. Acrocyanosis of hands and feet
• B. Anterior fontanel soft and level
• C. Plantar creases cover 2/3 of sole
• D. Vernix caseosa in inguinal creases

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Plantar creases covering 2/3 of the sole is an important physical characteristic used to assess gestational age in a newborn. This finding is significant because as gestational age advances, the plantar creases cover a larger portion of the sole. It is a valuable clue to the healthcare provider in determining the newborn's maturity level. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically relate to gestational age assessment. Acrocyanosis and vernix caseosa are common findings in newborns but are not directly used for determining gestational age. The softness and level of the anterior fontanel can provide information about intracranial pressure but are not directly related to gestational age assessment.

3. A client is in labor, and a nurse observes late decelerations on the electronic fetal monitor. What should the nurse identify as the first action that the registered nurse should take?

• A. Assist the client into the left-lateral position
• B. Apply a fetal scalp electrode
• C. Insert an IV catheter
• D. Perform a vaginal exam

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Late decelerations indicate uteroplacental insufficiency. The initial action should be to assist the client into the left-lateral position to optimize maternal blood flow and oxygenation to the fetus, thereby improving uteroplacental blood flow and fetal oxygenation. This position helps reduce pressure on the vena cava, enhancing blood return to the heart and improving circulation to the placenta. Applying a fetal scalp electrode (Choice B) is not the first action indicated for late decelerations. Inserting an IV catheter (Choice C) and performing a vaginal exam (Choice D) are not primary interventions for addressing late decelerations related to uteroplacental insufficiency.

4. A client who is postpartum received methylergonovine. Which of the following findings indicates that the medication was effective?

• A. Increase in blood pressure
• B. Fundus firm to palpation
• C. Increase in lochia
• D. Report of absent breast pain

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Methylergonovine is used to prevent or treat postpartum hemorrhage by contracting the uterus. A firm fundus indicates effective uterine contraction and less bleeding. Therefore, the correct answer is a firm fundus to palpation. The increase in blood pressure (Choice A) is not a typical finding associated with the effectiveness of methylergonovine. Increase in lochia (Choice C) may indicate excessive bleeding rather than the medication's effectiveness. Absence of breast pain (Choice D) is not directly related to the medication's effectiveness in treating postpartum hemorrhage.

5. After an amniotomy, what is the priority nursing action?

• A. Observe color and consistency of fluid
• B. Assess the fetal heart rate pattern
• C. Assess the client's temperature
• D. Evaluate the client for the presence of chills and increased uterine tenderness using palpation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After an amniotomy, the priority nursing action is to assess the fetal heart rate pattern. This is crucial to monitor for any signs of fetal distress, as changes in the fetal heart rate could indicate potential complications related to the procedure. Observing the color and consistency of the fluid (Choice A) is important but not the priority over assessing fetal well-being. Assessing the client's temperature (Choice C) and evaluating the client for chills and increased uterine tenderness (Choice D) are not immediate priorities following an amniotomy.

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