Question

After completing the initial assessment, what additional information should the nurse obtain to determine the severity of the infant's condition?

1) Vital signs
2) Lab results
3) Physical examination findings
4) Parent's medical history
5) All of the above

Answer 1

A nurse should gather information on vital signs, lab results, physical examination findings, and the parents' medical history to assess the severity of an infant's condition, with emphasis on vital signs and Apgar score components.

Step-by-step explanation:

After completing the initial assessment of an infant, a nurse should obtain additional information including vital signs, lab results, physical examination findings, and the parents' medical history. This holistic approach is important to determine the severity of the infant's condition. Vital signs such as heartbeat and respiration are crucial, especially as they form part of the Apgar score, which assesses a newborn's health immediately after birth. Laboratory results can provide insight into various health issues that might not be visible on the surface. A thorough physical examination can reveal issues related to color, muscle tone, and reflexes, which are also components of the Apgar score. Finally, understanding the medical history of the infant's parents can highlight potential hereditary conditions or other health concerns that may affect the infant.