Nursing Elites

1. A postpartum client who delivered a healthy newborn is being assessed by a nurse. Which finding would indicate a complication during the early postpartum period?

• A. Moderate lochia rubra
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Elevated blood pressure
• D. Uterine contraction

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An elevated blood pressure in the postpartum period may indicate the onset of preeclampsia, a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and sometimes swelling in the hands and face. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to closely monitor blood pressure levels in postpartum clients to promptly address any signs of preeclampsia. Choices A, B, and D are not indicative of a complication during the early postpartum period. Moderate lochia rubra is a normal finding as it indicates the normal discharge of blood and tissue from the uterus after childbirth. Bradycardia, a slow heart rate, is not typically a concern in the absence of other symptoms or signs of distress. Uterine contractions are essential for involution and are expected in the postpartum period.

2. The provider is educating the parents of a newborn about circumcision care. Which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Cleanse the penis with each diaper change using alcohol wipes.
• B. Avoid using petroleum jelly on the circumcision site.
• C. Report any yellowish exudate around the head of the penis.
• D. Use warm water to clean the penis gently during diaper changes.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for circumcision care is to use warm water to gently clean the penis during diaper changes. Alcohol wipes should be avoided as they can cause irritation. Yellowish exudate around the head of the penis is a normal part of the healing process and does not require reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Avoiding petroleum jelly on the circumcision site is important to prevent trapping moisture and bacteria, which can lead to infection.

3. You are treating a 5-year-old child who has had severe diarrhea and vomiting for 3 days and is now showing signs of shock. Supplemental oxygen has been given, and you have elevated his lower extremities. En route to the hospital, you note that his work of breathing has increased. You should:

• A. begin positive-pressure ventilations and reassess the child.
• B. lower the extremities and reassess the child.
• C. listen to the lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal breath sounds.
• D. insert a nasopharyngeal airway and increase the oxygen flow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When the work of breathing increases after elevating the legs, it is important to lower the extremities. Elevating the lower extremities in a child with signs of shock can worsen the condition by reducing venous return to the heart. Lowering the extremities can help improve venous return and potentially alleviate the increased work of breathing.

4. The nurse is preparing new parents for discharge with their newborn. The father asks the nurse why the baby's head is so pointed and puffy-looking. What is the best response by the nurse?

• A. His head is molded from fitting through the birth canal. It will become more round.
• B. We refer to that as 'cone head,' which is a temporary condition that goes away.
• C. It might mean that your baby sustained brain damage during birth, and could have delays.
• D. I think he looks just like you. Your head is much the same shape as your baby's.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The corrected response 'His head is molded from fitting through the birth canal. It will become more round.' is the best answer as it explains the physiological reason for the baby's appearance after birth. It reassures the father that the pointed and puffy-looking head is a normal part of the birthing process and will resolve on its own. Choice B is incorrect because while 'cone head' is a term used colloquially, it does not provide a detailed explanation. Choice C is incorrect and should be avoided as it introduces unnecessary worry by suggesting brain damage. Choice D is not an appropriate response as it doesn't address the father's concern or provide accurate information about newborn physiology.

5. A new mother is learning to breastfeed her newborn. Which position is recommended for a mother recovering from a cesarean section?

• A. Cradle hold
• B. Football hold
• C. Side-lying position
• D. Cross-cradle hold

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The football hold is recommended for mothers recovering from a cesarean section because it positions the baby higher up and away from the incision site, avoiding pressure on the abdomen. This hold also provides better support for the baby's head and neck, making it a more comfortable position for both the mother and the newborn.

Similar Questions