A NICU nurse is caring for a full-term neonate being treated for ...

[nramada]

A NICU nurse is caring for a full-term neonate being treated for group B streptococcus. The mother of the neonate is crying and shares that she cannot understand how her baby became infected. The best response by the nurse is:
 
  a. Newborns are more susceptible to infections due to an immature immune system. Would you like additional information on the newborn immune system?b. The infection was transmitted to your baby during the birthing process. Do you have a history of sexual transmitted infections?c. Approximately 10 to 30 of women are asymptomatic carries of group B streptococcus which is found in the vaginal area. What other questions do you have regarding your baby's health?d. I see that this is very upsetting for you. I will come back later and answer your questions.

Question 2

A full-term neonate who is 30 hours old has a bilirubin level of 10 mg/dL. The neonate has a yellowish tint to the skin of the face.
 
  The mother is breastfeeding her newborn. The nurse caring for this neonate would anticipate which of the following interventions?a. Phototherapyb. Feeding neonate every 2 to 3 hoursc. Switch from breastfeeding to bottle feeding
  d. Assess red blood cell count

[cassie_ragen]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: c
Feedback
a. Correct information, but does not fully address the woman's concern.
b. Correct, but GBS is not a sexually transmitted disease.
c. Correct. This response answers her questions and allows her to ask additional questions about her baby's health.
d. Acknowledges that she is upset but does not provide immediate information.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: b
Feedback
a. Phototherapy is considered when the levels are 12 mg/dL or higher when the neonate is 25 to 48 hours old. Neonates re-absorb increased amounts of unconjugated bilirubin in the intestines due to lack of intestinal bacteria and decreased gastrointestinal motility.
b. Adequate hydration promotes excretion of bilirubin in the urine.
c. Colostrum acts as a laxative and assists in the passage of meconium.
d. Assessing RBC is not a treatment for hyperbilirubinemia.