Question

The newborn is admitted to the nursery. Which finding requires further evaluation? ? A. The infant’s Apgar score is 8 at one minute and 10 at five minutes. ? B. The infant’s identification band is applied to the infant’s left wrist. ? C. The infant’s feet are slightly blue. ? D. The infant’s heart rate is 110 beats per minute

Short answer

Answer: The infant's slightly blue feet require further evaluation due to the possibility of cyanosis and associated health complications.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the infant's Apgar score

The Apgar score is a quick assessment tool used to evaluate the physical condition of a newborn immediately after birth. An Apgar score of 8 at one minute and 10 at five minutes is considered normal and healthy, indicating that the infant is in good physical condition and does not require immediate medical assistance.

Analyze the infant's identification band placement

An identification band placed on the infant's left wrist is standard practice in most hospitals. This helps ensure that the newborn is correctly identified and matched with their parents. There is no concern regarding the placement of the identification band.

Analyze the infant's foot coloration

If the infant's feet are slightly blue, this might indicate poor blood circulation or low oxygen levels in the blood, a condition called cyanosis. Cyanosis in infants can be a concerning sign, and further evaluation should be conducted to determine the underlying cause and necessary interventions if needed.

Analyze the infant's heart rate

A heart rate of 110 beats per minute is considered a normal range for a newborn infant. Heart rates between 100 - 160 beats per minute can be considered normal for a newborn. Therefore, the infant's heart rate does not require further evaluation.

Determine which finding requires further evaluation

Based on the analysis of each option, the infant's slightly blue feet (Option C) require further evaluation due to the possibility of cyanosis and associated health complications. The other options are within normal limits and do not warrant additional concerns.