Nursing Elites

1. During the initial assessment of the newborn, which of the following data would be considered normal?

• A. Chest circumference 31.5 cm, head circumference 33.5 cm
• B. Chest circumference 30 cm, head circumference 29 cm
• C. Chest circumference 38 cm, head circumference 31.5 cm
• D. Chest circumference 32.5 cm, head circumference 36 cm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. During the initial assessment of a newborn, the average head circumference at birth is 32 to 37 cm, while the average chest circumference ranges from 30 to 35 cm. Normally, the head's circumference is about 2 cm greater than the chest circumference at birth. Choice A provides measurements of chest circumference 31.5 cm and head circumference 33.5 cm, both falling within the normal range in terms of actual size and relative size. Choices B, C, and D do not align with the typical measurements seen in a healthy newborn. Choice B has both circumferences below the average range, choice C has the chest circumference above the average, and choice D has the head circumference notably higher than the chest circumference, which is not typical for a newborn.

2. Before drying off the newborn after birth, which assessment finding should the healthcare professional document to ensure an accurate gestational rating on the Ballard gestational assessment tool?

• A. Amount and area of vernix coverage
• B. Creases on the sole
• C. Size of the areola
• D. Body surface temperature

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To ensure an accurate gestational rating on the Ballard gestational assessment tool, healthcare professionals should document the amount and area of vernix coverage before drying the newborn. Drying the baby after birth could disturb the vernix, potentially affecting the gestational age assessment. Assessing and documenting the vernix coverage beforehand enables a more precise evaluation using the Ballard gestational assessment tool. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not directly related to gestational rating on the Ballard assessment tool.

3. Which of the following techniques represents the MOST appropriate method of opening the airway of an infant with no suspected neck injury?

• A. Perform the technique as you would for an older child or adult.
• B. Lift up the chin and hyperextend the neck.
• C. Gently lift the chin while maintaining slight flexion of the neck.
• D. Tilt the head back without hyperextending the neck.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Tilting the head back without hyperextending the neck is the safest way to open an infant's airway. Hyperextending the neck can potentially cause harm to the infant, making option D the most appropriate method for opening an infant's airway without suspected neck injury.

4. Upon assessing a newborn immediately after delivery, you note that the infant is breathing spontaneously and has a heart rate of 80 beats/min. What is the MOST appropriate initial management for this newborn?

• A. Assess the newborn's skin condition and color.
• B. Initiate positive-pressure ventilations.
• C. Start chest compressions and contact medical control.
• D. Provide blow-by oxygen with oxygen tubing.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a newborn with a heart rate below 100 beats/min, the most appropriate initial management is to initiate positive-pressure ventilations. This helps support the newborn's respiratory effort and oxygenation in the setting of a low heart rate, ensuring adequate oxygen supply to vital organs. Assessing the skin condition and color, starting chest compressions, or providing blow-by oxygen are not the priority in this scenario where respiratory support is crucial.

5. How will a ventricular septal defect affect blood flow?

• A. Blood will shunt left to right, causing increased pulmonary flow and no cyanosis.
• B. Blood will shunt right to left, causing decreased pulmonary flow and cyanosis.
• C. No shunting occurs due to high pressure in the left ventricle.
• D. Increased pressure in the left atrium hinders the circulation of oxygenated blood in the circulating volume.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A ventricular septal defect allows blood to shunt left to right, leading to increased pulmonary flow. This results in oxygenated blood mixing with deoxygenated blood, causing no cyanosis as the mixed blood is still oxygenated. The shunting from left to right overloads the pulmonary circulation, leading to increased pulmonary flow. Choice B is incorrect because blood does not shunt right to left in a ventricular septal defect. Choice C is incorrect as shunting does occur due to the pressure differences between the ventricles. Choice D is incorrect because the defect affects the ventricles, not the atrium, and does not hinder the circulation of oxygenated blood in the circulating volume.

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