Final answer:
Newborns delivered by clients addicted to narcotics typically begin to show symptoms of narcotic withdrawal 48 to 72 hours after birth. These symptoms are part of the neonatal withdrawal syndrome, which requires careful monitoring.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is most likely to observe symptoms of narcotic withdrawal in a newborn delivered by a client addicted to narcotics between 48 to 72 hours after birth (Option C). Withdrawing from narcotics can be a painful and complicated process, and the timeline for onset of symptoms in newborns can vary slightly. These symptoms are due to the sudden discontinuation of the substance that the fetus has become accustomed to during gestation. Symptoms associated with withdrawal in newborns include but are not limited to tremors, irritability, poor feeding, and sleep problems. The neonatal withdrawal syndrome can be acute, with symptoms requiring careful monitoring and sometimes pharmacological treatment to ensure the safety and comfort of the newborn.
Physiologically, neonates go through significant adjustments after birth, transitioning from a consistent supply of warmth and nourishment from the mother to a more demanding external environment. This transition can be even more challenging for a neonate experiencing narcotic withdrawal.