Nursing Elites

1. What are the MOST important initial steps in assessing and managing a newborn?

• A. Drying and warming the infant, obtaining an APGAR score.
• B. Clearing the airway, keeping the infant warm.
• C. Suctioning the airway, obtaining a heart rate.
• D. Keeping the infant warm, counting respirations.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most crucial initial steps in assessing and managing a newborn involve clearing the airway to ensure proper breathing and keeping the infant warm to maintain body temperature. Airway clearance helps prevent respiratory distress, while warmth is essential to prevent hypothermia, a common issue in newborns. These steps are vital in the immediate care of a newborn to support their transition to extrauterine life and ensure their well-being. Choice A is incorrect because obtaining an APGAR score is important but not as critical as clearing the airway. Choice C is incorrect as suctioning the airway is not always necessary and obtaining a heart rate is secondary to ensuring a clear airway and warmth. Choice D is incorrect because counting respirations is not as immediate and crucial as clearing the airway.

2. The instructor is teaching a group of new mothers about infant care. Which statement indicates that further teaching is needed?

• A. I should put my baby to sleep on their back.
• B. I can give my baby water if they seem thirsty.
• C. Breastfeeding provides all the nutrients my baby needs.
• D. I should burp my baby after each feeding.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Newborns do not need additional water as breast milk or formula provides all the necessary hydration. Giving water to infants can be harmful and is not recommended as it can interfere with the balance of electrolytes in their bodies. Choice A is correct as placing babies on their back for sleep is the recommended safe sleeping position. Choice C is also correct as breastfeeding does provide all the essential nutrients for babies. Choice D is correct as burping the baby after each feeding helps prevent discomfort from trapped air.

3. A breastfeeding mother reports breast engorgement. The nurse advises her to:

• A. Increase the frequency of feedings
• B. Apply ice packs to the breasts
• C. Avoid breastfeeding until the pain subsides
• D. Use a breast pump to empty the breasts completely

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Breast engorgement occurs when the breasts become overfilled with milk. By increasing the frequency of feedings, the mother can ensure that her breasts are emptied regularly, helping to relieve the discomfort associated with engorgement. This advice promotes effective milk removal and prevents further accumulation, which can worsen the condition. Applying ice packs may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue of milk accumulation. Avoiding breastfeeding can lead to further engorgement and potential complications. Using a breast pump to empty the breasts completely may be necessary in some cases, but increasing the frequency of feedings is the initial and most appropriate intervention to manage breast engorgement.

4. What is the most appropriate action to prevent heat loss in a newborn immediately after birth?

• A. Place the newborn in an incubator
• B. Bathe the newborn right away
• C. Dry the newborn thoroughly
• D. Feed the newborn

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Drying the newborn thoroughly is the most appropriate action to prevent heat loss immediately after birth. This helps to prevent heat loss through evaporation, which is crucial in maintaining the newborn's body temperature. Placing the newborn in an incubator can be a secondary step after ensuring the baby is dry. Bathing the newborn right away is not recommended as it can lead to further heat loss through evaporation. Feeding the newborn is important but not an immediate action to prevent heat loss; ensuring the baby is dry and warm takes precedence.

5. How can a new mother tell if her baby is getting enough breast milk?

• A. If your baby sleeps through the night, they are getting enough milk.
• B. If your baby has six to eight wet diapers a day, they are getting enough milk.
• C. If your baby cries frequently, they are getting enough milk.
• D. If your baby is awake and alert, they are getting enough milk.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. If a new mother observes that her baby has six to eight wet diapers a day, it indicates that the baby is getting enough breast milk. This is a crucial indicator of adequate milk intake and hydration in infants. Conversely, choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A baby sleeping through the night, crying frequently, or being awake and alert are not reliable indicators of sufficient breast milk intake. It is essential for new mothers to track their baby's diaper output to ensure they are receiving the necessary nutrition.

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