The nurse is assessing a newborn. Which of the following findings, if observed by the nurse, should be a cause for concern?
A)Blood pressure difference between the upper arms and thighs is wide
B)A newborn with an apical heart rate of 170 beats per minute when crying
C)Symmetric blue or cyanotic discoloration of the feet and hands
D)Brief periods of apnea during sleep

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A wide difference of blood pressure measurements between the upper arms and thighs is suggestive of coarctation of the aorta. The normal range of the apical rate of newborns is between 120 and 160, or up to 180 during crying. Symmetric cyanotic discoloration of extremities and periods of apnea are commonly seen in newborn babies.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Newborn