Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 78%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A nurse is planning care immediately following birth for a newborn who has a myelomeningocele that is leaking cerebrospinal fluid.Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics. This is essential in the plan of care to treat a suspected infection. Antibiotics can target a wide range of bacteria, covering potential pathogens until specific cultures can identify the causative organism. Cleansing the site with povidone-iodine (B) is important for local hygiene but does not address systemic infection. Monitoring rectal temperature (C) is a good assessment measure but does not actively treat infection. Preparing for surgical closure after 72 hr (D) may be necessary but does not address the immediate need to manage infection.