A nurse is planning to obtain a blood specimen from a newborn via a heel stick.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Cool the newborn's heel prior to the procedure.
Puncture the center of the newborn's heel.
Cleanse the puncture site with alcohol gauze prior to the procedure.
Administer vitamin K 30 minutes prior to each blood draw.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Cooling the newborn’s heel would constrict blood vessels and make it more difficult to obtain a blood sample. Warming the heel is the preferred method to increase blood flow.
Choice B rationale
Puncturing the center of the newborn’s heel is not recommended as it could cause more pain and potential injury to the bone. The puncture should be done on the outer edges of the heel.
Choice C rationale
Cleansing the puncture site with alcohol gauze is essential to reduce the risk of infection and ensure that the sample is not contaminated.
Choice D rationale
Administering vitamin K before each blood draw is unnecessary. Vitamin K is typically given as a one-time dose to prevent bleeding issues, not related to blood draw procedures.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Transient circumoral cyanosis is common in newborns, especially when crying or feeding, and usually resolves on its own without intervention.
Choice B rationale
Transient strabismus, or the temporary crossing of the eyes, is normal in newborns due to underdeveloped eye muscles and usually resolves as the infant grows.
Choice C rationale
Caput succedaneum is the swelling of the scalp caused by pressure during delivery. It is usually benign and resolves within a few days without treatment.
Choice D rationale
Generalized petechiae, or small red or purple spots on the skin, can indicate a serious underlying condition such as a clotting disorder or infection and requires immediate medical evaluation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Only one dose of rubella immunization is necessary post-delivery, no need for a second dose in 2 weeks.
Choice B rationale
Prevention of pregnancy is recommended for at least 1 month (not 4 months) after receiving the rubella vaccine to avoid possible teratogenic effects.
Choice C rationale
An additional rubella immunization is not recommended during pregnancy as the live vaccine is contraindicated during gestation.
Choice D rationale
Rubella vaccine is safe for breastfeeding mothers, as it does not affect the safety of breast milk.