Critical-Thinking Questions about Case Studies
1
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Refer to Newborn Care: Part 3
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When assessing Marcus, a heart rate of 145 is noted on auscultation. What is the priority action by the nurse?
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Chart the heart rate as a part of their assessment.
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Call and inform the provider.
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Assess the heart rate a second time by listening for a full minute with the stethoscope.
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Provide stimulation to the newborn and reassess in 3 to 5 minutes.
2
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Refer to Newborn Care: Part 3
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When describing Marcus’s breathing pattern, what would be the most accurate description?
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A newborn requires oxygen after birth until they are at least 24 hours old.
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A newborn has periods of true apnea, greater than 20 seconds, until they are a month old.
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A newborn uses accessory muscles regularly during breathing, with retractions at the subcostal and supracostal areas.
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A newborn has periodic breathing with short pauses and periods in which they breathe faster.
3
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Refer to Newborn Care: Part 3
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When assessing Marcus, what is the nurse’s priority?
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Complete the most invasive items first.
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Complete the least invasive items first.
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Complete a head-to-toe exam in the order of top to bottom.
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Complete the assessment of the newborn’s skin followed by the reflexes.