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 providing discharge teaching to a client who is postpartum and has an episiotomy. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
• B. Apply a cold pack to the perineal area for the first 24 hours.
• C. Use a sitz bath once per week.
• D. Begin Kegel exercises after the first week.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching is to apply a cold pack to the perineal area for the first 24 hours. This helps reduce swelling and promote comfort, aiding in the healing process after an episiotomy. Option A is incorrect as it does not provide specific guidance on managing postpartum recovery. Option C is incorrect because using a sitz bath once per week may not be frequent enough for proper wound care. Option D is incorrect because beginning Kegel exercises immediately after delivery can put excessive strain on the perineal area, potentially hindering healing.

5. A client is experiencing preterm labor and is receiving betamethasone. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

• A. This medication will help prevent contractions.
• B. This medication will reduce my baby's risk of respiratory distress.
• C. This medication will prevent early labor.
• D. This medication will increase my baby's weight.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct answer: Option B. Betamethasone is a glucocorticoid used to promote fetal lung maturity and reduce the risk of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants. Option A is incorrect because betamethasone does not prevent contractions. Option C is incorrect as betamethasone does not prevent early labor but helps improve fetal lung development. Option D is incorrect as betamethasone does not increase the baby's weight.

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