Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is providing care to a client who is in active labor. The nurse observes variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via face mask
• B. Reposition the client from side to side
• C. Increase the rate of the IV infusion
• D. Notify the provider

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action the nurse should take first when observing variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate is to reposition the client from side to side. Variable decelerations are often caused by umbilical cord compression, and repositioning the client can relieve pressure on the cord. Administering oxygen, increasing the IV infusion rate, and notifying the provider can be appropriate actions but repositioning the client takes priority in addressing variable decelerations.

2. A healthcare provider is assessing a newborn who is 12 hours old. Which of the following findings should the provider report?

• A. Respiratory rate 50/min
• B. Blood glucose 30 mg/dL
• C. Blood pressure 60/40 mm Hg
• D. Heart rate 140/min

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A blood glucose level of 30 mg/dL in a newborn is significantly low and indicates hypoglycemia, which can be dangerous in a newborn. Hypoglycemia in a newborn can lead to neurological issues and requires immediate attention. The other findings provided, such as a respiratory rate of 50/min, blood pressure of 60/40 mm Hg, and a heart rate of 140/min, are within normal ranges for a newborn and do not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by clinical signs of distress.

3. A newborn delivered at 41 weeks of gestation is showing signs of postmaturity. Which of the following findings is an indication of fetal postmaturity?

• A. Soft, flexible ear cartilage
• B. Smooth soles without creases
• C. Thin with loose skin
• D. Vernix caseosa covering the body

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Thin with loose skin.' Postmature newborns are typically thin with loose skin due to prolonged gestation. This may result from placental insufficiency, leading to reduced subcutaneous fat stores. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Soft, flexible ear cartilage (choice A) is a normal finding in newborns. Smooth soles without creases (choice B) are also typical in newborns. Vernix caseosa covering the body (choice D) is a protective, waxy coating found on newborns, which may be present in postmature infants as well.

4. A nurse is assessing a newborn who is 1 day old. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

• A. Heart rate 160/min
• B. Axillary temperature 36.8°C (98.2°F)
• C. Yellow-tinged skin
• D. Respiratory rate 42/min

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Yellow-tinged skin. Yellow-tinged skin within the first 24 hours of life can indicate pathological jaundice and should be reported to the provider. High heart rate (Choice A), normal axillary temperature (Choice B), and slightly elevated respiratory rate (Choice D) are common findings in newborns and may not necessarily require immediate reporting unless they persist or are significantly abnormal.

5. A client who is postpartum reports abdominal cramping during breastfeeding. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Administer ibuprofen
• B. Administer oxytocin
• C. Place a warm compress on the client's abdomen
• D. Assist the client to change positions

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Abdominal cramping during breastfeeding is common due to the release of oxytocin. Ibuprofen, an analgesic, is suitable for relieving discomfort. Administering oxytocin is unnecessary and may exacerbate the cramping. Placing a warm compress may not address the underlying cause of the cramping. Changing positions may provide temporary relief but does not address the cause of the cramping.

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