The nurse is caring for a postpartum couplet and notices that the newborn is cyanotic and apneic, with a heart rate of 70/min. The nurse calls for help and begins resuscitation. Which position is appropriate for ventilating the newborn?

Question

The nurse is caring for a postpartum couplet and notices that the newborn is cyanotic and apneic, with a heart rate of 70/min.  The nurse calls for help and begins resuscitation.  Which position is appropriate for ventilating the newborn?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_cc14_852f_b433_612786e0359e_MD0009_00 Before newborn resuscitation, the nurse should place the infant on the back with the neck slightly extended to promote adequate ventilation. Very slight neck extension, otherwise known as the neutral or sniffing position, ensures a patent airway. The nurse may need to place a blanket or towel roll under the newborn's shoulders to elevate the chest ¾-1 inch (2-2.5 cm) above the mattress. This technique may be particularly useful for maintaining the sniffing position during ventilation if the newborn has a large occiput from molding or edema (eg, caput succedaneum) (Option A). (Option B) The newborn's neck is not well extended and slightly flexed, which can decrease air entry. (Option C) The newborn's neck is hyperextended, which can decrease air entry. (Option D) A blanket or towel roll under the newborn's occiput results in significant neck flexion and decreases air entry. Educational objective: Before newborn resuscitation, the nurse should position the newborn with the neck slightly extended (ie, sniffing position) to allow proper air entry into the lungs during ventilation. In addition, a blanket or towel roll placed under the newborn's shoulders may facilitate positioning.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Postpartum Couplet and Notices