Question

A nurse is caring for a preterm infant who is receiving oxygen therapy. What should the nurse do in an attempt to prevent retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)?

1. Covering the neonate's eyes with a shield

2. Placing the neonate in an elevated side-lying position

3. Assessing the neonate every hour with a pulse oximeter

4. Supporting the neonate's respirations while providing minimal oxygenation (Nugent 331)
Nugent, Patricia M. Mosby's Review Questions for the NCLEX-RN® Examination, 7th Edition. Mosby, 2011. VitalBook file.

Answer 1

To prevent retinopathy of prematurity in a preterm infant on oxygen therapy, the nurse should regularly use a pulse oximeter to assess oxygen saturation and maintain it within a safe range.

Step-by-step explanation:

In an attempt to prevent retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in a preterm infant receiving oxygen therapy, the most critical step a nurse can take is to support the neonate's respirations while providing minimal oxygenation. This involves using a pulse oximeter to regularly assess the infant's oxygen saturation levels and ensure they stay within a target range. The aim is to avoid both hypoxia and hyperoxia, as both can contribute to the development of ROP. Covering the neonate's eyes with a shield is not directly related to ROP prevention but may protect from other sources of irritation or damage. The side-lying position doesn’t directly influence ROP risk. Thus, close monitoring through the use of pulse oximetry to guide oxygen therapy is the most relevant approach.