Author Question: When is the best time for the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse to initiate an ... (Read 27 times)

wenmo · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

When is the best time for the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse to initiate an individualized stimulation program for the preterm newborn?

a. As soon as possible after newborn is born
b. As soon as parent is available to provide stimulation
c. When newborn is over 38 weeks of gestation
d. When developmental organization and stability are sufficient

Question 2

Which is an important nursing action related to the use of tape and/or adhesives on premature newborns?

a. Avoid using tape and adhesives until skin is more mature.
b. Use solvents to remove tape and adhesives instead of pulling on skin.
c. Remove adhesives with warm water or mineral oil.
d. Use scissors carefully to remove tape instead of pulling tape off.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Newborn stimulation is essential for growth and development. The appropriate time for the introduction of an individualized program is when developmental organization and stability are achieved at approximately 34 and 36 weeks of gestation. The newborn needs to be developmentally ready for a stimulation program. The newborn must be assessed to determine the readiness and appropriateness of the stimulation program. The program should be designed and implemented by the nursing staff. The family can be involved, as the nurses help teach the parents to be responsive to the child's cues, but the stimulation should not depend on the family's availability. An individualized stimulation program should be started when the child is developmentally ready.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Warm water, mineral oil, or petrolatum can be used to facilitate the removal of adhesive. In the premature newborn, often it is impossible to avoid using adhesives and tape. The smallest amount of adhesive necessary should be used. Solvents should be avoided because they tend to dry and burn the delicate skin. Scissors should not be used to remove dressings or tape from the extremities of very small and immature newborns because it is easy to snip off tiny extremities or nick loosely attached skin.