A nurse is providing care to a woman who is at 36 weeks of gestation and in preterm labor with ruptured membranes.
The nurse determines that the client's oral temperature is 39.0 C (102.2 F). Besides notifying the provider, which of the following is an appropriate nursing action?
Administer prescribed antipyretics for maternal fever.
Prepare the client for emergency cesarean section.
Administer glucocorticoids intramuscularly.
Recheck the client's temperature in 4 hr.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Administering antipyretics for maternal fever is essential as elevated maternal temperatures can increase the risk of fetal tachycardia and potentially lead to fetal distress. Reducing
fever promptly is a priority to stabilize both maternal and fetal conditions.
Choice B rationale
Preparing for an emergency cesarean section is not the immediate step for maternal fever; instead, managing the fever and assessing the need for further interventions based on the
overall clinical picture should be prioritized.
Choice C rationale
Administering glucocorticoids is indicated for promoting fetal lung maturity in preterm labor, not specifically for maternal fever management. Fever management requires antipyretics
and hydration.
Choice D rationale
Waiting 4 hours to recheck temperature delays prompt management, increasing risks for both the mother and fetus. Immediate action to reduce fever is crucial to prevent potential
complications.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Blue coloring of the hands and feet in an 8-hour-old newborn (acrocyanosis) is a common, benign finding as the newborn’s circulatory system adjusts post-birth. It does not require immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
Small raised pearly spots on the nose (milia) are harmless and common in newborns. They do not necessitate any intervention.
Choice C rationale
An apical heart rate of 140 bpm is within the normal range for newborns and does not require intervention.
Choice D rationale
Nasal flaring and grunting are signs of respiratory distress in a newborn. This condition demands immediate intervention to ensure the newborn’s airway is clear and breathing is adequately supported.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Turning the newborn's head quickly to one side elicits the tonic neck reflex, not the Moro reflex. The tonic neck reflex involves the newborn's arm extending on the side where the
head is turned and the opposite arm bending at the elbow, resembling a fencing position.
Choice B rationale
Performing a sharp hand clap near the infant elicits the Moro (startle) reflex, which is characterized by the infant throwing their arms outward, opening their hands, and then bringing
the arms back in. This is a response to sudden stimuli and is a normal reflex in newborns.
Choice C rationale
Stroking the outer edge of the sole of the foot from near the heel up toward the toes elicits the Babinski reflex, not the Moro reflex. The Babinski reflex is characterized by the big toe
moving upward or toward the top surface of the foot and the other toes fanning out.
Choice D rationale
Placing a finger at the base of the newborn's toes elicits the plantar grasp reflex, not the Moro reflex. The plantar grasp reflex involves the toes curling around the finger or object
placed at the base of the toes. .