Author Question: Which nursing action is a priority to prevent infection in the newborn? (Select all that apply.) ... (Read 49 times)

burchfield96 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

Which nursing action is a priority to prevent infection in the newborn? (Select all that apply.)

a. Wearing gloves before touching neonates
b. Washing hands before and after handling any neonate
c. Washing hands and arms thoroughly at the beginning of the day
d. Sharing some equipment that will not transmit infection from one neonate to another

Question 2

The nurse has just completed discharge teaching to parents on newborn bathing. Which statement made by the parents indicates a further need for teaching? (Select all that apply.)

a. We will clean the diaper area last.
b. We will use cotton-tipped swabs to clean the ears.
c. We will use an antibacterial soap during the sponge bath.
d. We can submerge the baby in a tub of water after the cord falls off.
e. We will shampoo the baby's head using a football hold before unwrapping.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, C
At the beginning of their shift, nurses wash their hands and arms thoroughly. Throughout the day, handwashing is important before and after touching any infant. Gloves are not necessary unless personal protective equipment is required because of coming in contact with body fluids. To avoid cross-contamination, each infant's supplies are kept separately from those used for other infants. Supplies in drawers or cupboards of each crib unit should be used only for that infant because they are likely to be touched by nurses giving care. Using them for another neonate could result in the transfer of infectious organisms.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B, C
Soap is not necessary for the young infant but if used, it should be gentle and nonalkaline to protect the natural acids of the infant's skin. Do not use cotton-tipped swabs in the infant's ears or nose because injury may occur if the baby moves suddenly. Clean the diaper area last. The cord generally falls off in about 10 to 14 days. Some care providers suggest waiting for the cord to fall off before tub bathing. Before fully undressing the baby, use the football position to shampoo the baby's head.