Author Question: The normal term infant has little difficulty clearing the airway after birth. Most secretions are ... (Read 67 times)

rlane42 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

The normal term infant has little difficulty clearing the airway after birth. Most secretions are brought up to the oropharynx by the cough reflex.

However, if the infant has excess secretions, the mouth and nasal passages can be cleared easily with a bulb syringe. When instructing parents on the correct use of this piece of equipment, it is important that the nurse teach them to:
a. Avoid suctioning the nares.
b. Insert the compressed bulb into the center of the mouth.
c. Suction the mouth first.
d. Remove the bulb syringe from the crib when finished.

Question 2

During the complete physical examination 24 hours after birth:

a. The parents are excused to reduce their normal anxiety.
b. The nurse can gauge the neonate's ma-turity level by assessing the infant's gen-eral appearance.
c. Once often neglected, blood pressure is now routinely checked.
d. When the nurse listens to the heart, the S1 and S2 sounds can be heard; the first sound is somewhat higher in pitch and sharper than the second.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The mouth should be suctioned first to prevent the infant from inhaling pharyngeal secretions by gasping as the nares are suctioned. The nasal passages should be suctioned one nostril at a time. After compression of the bulb it should be inserted into one side of the mouth. If the bulb is in-serted into the center of the mouth, the gag reflex is likely to be initiated. When the infant's cry no longer sounds as though it is through mucus or a bubble, suctioning can be stopped. The bulb syringe should remain in the crib so that it is easily accessible if needed again.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The nurse will be looking at skin color, alertness, cry, head size, and other features. The parents' presence actively involves them in child care and gives the nurse a chance to observe interactions. Blood pressure is not usually taken unless cardiac problems are suspected. The second sound is higher and sharper than the first.