Question

A nurse is caring for a patient and her newborn immediately after delivery. The patient's medication history includes prenatal vitamins throughout pregnancy, occasional use of acetaminophen in her last trimester, and IV (intravenous) morphine given during labor and delivery. What should the nurse prepare to do?

Select one:
a. Assess the newborn for irritability associated with drug addiction in the newborn.
b. Monitor the infant's respirations closely and prepare to administer oxygen.
c. Prepare the parents for developmental delays in the infant caused by the morphine use.
d. Administer opioids to the infant to prevent withdrawal syndrome.

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor the infant's respirations closely and prepare to administer oxygen.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should prepare to monitor the infant's respirations closely and prepare to administer oxygen.

The mother's use of IV morphine during labor and delivery can result in the newborn experiencing respiratory depression. Monitoring the infant's respirations is essential to ensure their well-being and catch any signs of respiratory distress. If the infant's respirations are inadequate, oxygen may be administered to support their breathing.