Therapeutic Procedures Flashcards

The nurse is discussing the neonatal blood screening test with a new mother. The nurse knows that the teaching was successful when the mother states that the test screens for the presence in the newborn of which of the following diseases? (Select all that apply)

Answer: Hypothyroidism.

Neonatal blood screening tests, often called heel prick tests, are designed to identify several serious genetic, metabolic, and endocrine disorders early in life. Common conditions screened for include hypothyroidism, sickle cell disease, galactosemia, and cystic fibrosis, allowing for timely intervention to prevent severe complications. Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition not typically detected by these blood tests.

The nursery nurse is careful to wear gloves when admitting neonates into the nursery. Which of the following is the scientific rationale for this action?

Answer: Amniotic fluid may contain harmful viruses.

Wearing gloves when admitting neonates is a standard infection control practice to protect healthcare workers from potential exposure to pathogens. Amniotic fluid, blood, and other bodily fluids from the mother or newborn can potentially contain harmful viruses, such as HIV or Hepatitis B. Gloves act as a crucial barrier to prevent transmission.

A full-term newborn was just born. Which nursing intervention is important for the nurse to perform first?

Answer: Remove wet blankets.

The most immediate and critical nursing intervention for a newborn is to prevent heat loss, as neonates are highly susceptible to hypothermia. Removing wet blankets and replacing them with warm, dry ones helps maintain the infant's core body temperature. Maintaining thermal stability is paramount for metabolic function and overall well-being, preceding other assessments or interventions.

To reduce the risk of hypoglycemia in a full-term newborn weighing 2,900 grams, what should the nurse do?

Answer: Maintain the infant's temperature above 97.7°F.

Hypothermia in newborns significantly increases their metabolic rate and oxygen consumption, which rapidly depletes their limited glucose stores. Maintaining a stable core body temperature above 97.7°F (36.5°C) minimizes this metabolic stress and helps conserve glucose, thereby directly reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. Thermal regulation is crucial for glucose homeostasis.

A nurse notes that a 6-hour-old neonate has cyanotic hands and feet. Which of the following actions by the nurse is appropriate?

Answer: Swaddle baby in a blanket.

Cyanotic hands and feet (acrocyanosis) are a common and normal finding in newborns during the first 24-48 hours of life, especially if they are slightly cool. This is due to immature peripheral circulation. Swaddling the baby in a blanket will help warm the infant and improve peripheral circulation, which is the appropriate initial action for this benign condition.