Author Question: When using a bulb syringe to clear a newborn's airway immediately after birth, the nurse should ... (Read 74 times)

ericka1 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

When using a bulb syringe to clear a newborn's airway immediately after birth, the nurse should first suction the mouth and then the nose because:

a. The mouth is cleaner than the nose.
b. Suctioning the mouth often causes gagging.
c. The infant breathes primarily through the nose.
d. Clearing the mouth first decreases the risk of aspiration.

Question 2

In a precipitate delivery in which no physician or midwife is present, the nurse should:

a. Press against the baby's head to delay delivery until help arrives.
b. Instruct the woman to push during her contractions.
c. Apply gentle pressure to the perineum and deliver the head between contractions.
d. Use mechanical suction set on low to clear the baby's airway.

ApricotDream · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Nasal suctioning can trigger a reflexive inhalation of pharyngeal material, resulting in aspiration of amniotic fluid. Therefore, the mouth should be cleared first.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The nurse can apply gentle pressure to the perineum and deliver the head between contractions. There should be no attempt to hold the head back.