5 Questions
What are the two primary assessments done on an infant at birth?
Obvious congenital anomalies and gestational age
Why is the first assessment done under a prewarmed radiant heat warmer?
To guard against heat loss
What is the primary role of a nurse in monitoring high-risk infants?
To frequently observe and care for the infant consistently over time
What is the significance of comments from fellow nurses such as an infant “isn’t himself” or “breathes irregularly”?
They are similar to observations that parents who know their baby well report at healthcare visits
What is the purpose of continuing assessment of high-risk infants?
To detect any changes in the infant's condition before they become severe
Study Notes
Assessment of Newborns
- Newborns should be assessed at birth for obvious congenital anomalies and gestational age (number of weeks the newborn remained in utero).
- The initial assessment should be done under a prewarmed radiant heat warmer to prevent heat loss.
- Continuing assessment of high-risk infants involves the use of technology and equipment, including:
- Cardiac monitoring
- Apnea monitoring
- Oxygen saturation monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Frequent, close, common sense observations by a nurse who knows the infant well are essential, as they can sense changes before a monitor or equipment detects them.
- Comments from fellow nurses, such as "isn't himself" or "breathes irregularly", should be carefully evaluated, as they are similar to observations made by parents who know their baby well.
Assessing newborns for congenital anomalies and gestational age, with a focus on initial examination and monitoring of vital signs.
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