The nurse is caring for a baby born at 30 weeks gestation and diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis. Which nursing action should be implemented?

Question

The nurse is caring for a baby born at 30 weeks gestation and diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis.  Which nursing action should be implemented?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_cc1e_7049_b433_7ff38c02c065_MD0009_00 Necrotizing enterocolitis occurs predominantly in preterm infants secondary to gastrointestinal and immunologic immaturity. On initiation of enteral feeding, bacteria can be introduced into the bowel, where they can proliferate excessively due to compromised immune clearance. This results in inflammation and ischemic necrosis of the intestine. As the disease progresses, the bowel becomes congested and gangrenous with gas collections forming inside the bowel wall. Measuring the client's abdominal girth daily is an important nursing intervention to note any worsening intestinal gas-associated swelling. Clients are made NPO and receive nasogastric suction to decompress the stomach and intestines. Parenteral hydration and nutrition and IV antibiotics are given. (Option A) Skin-to-skin care (kangaroo care) promotes bonding with a healthy newborn. It is allowed in some instances for premature infants depending on the condition and week of gestation. Skin-to-skin care should be avoided in infants who are not stable as it may cause additional stress. (Option C) Taking a client's temperature every 3-4 hours is important; however, rectal temperatures should be avoided due to the risk of perforation of the gangrenous, friable colon. (Option D) To avoid pressure on the abdomen and facilitate observation for a distended abdomen, clients are placed supine and undiapered. Educational objective: Necrotizing enterocolitis is a life-threatening complication in premature infants due to underdeveloped intestine and gut immunity. Frequent abdominal girth measurements are essential to assess for worsening distension. Clients are placed supine and undiapered. Rectal temperatures should be avoided due to the risk of perforation.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Baby Born at 30