Key Nursing Actions for Newborn and Maternal Care

Vital Signs and Initial Care of Newborns Monitoring Newborn Vital Signs • The axillary temperature of a newborn should be maintained between 97.7°F to 99.5°F; a reading of 97.2°F indicates potential hypothermia. • Newborns have a thin layer of subcutaneous fat, making them susceptible to heat loss; thus, radiant heat warmers are used to maintain body temperature. • Tremors in newborns can indicate hypoglycemia or neurological issues; close observation is necessary during assessments. Importance of Erythromycin Ointment • Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is administered to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum, an eye infection caused by gonorrhea or chlamydia. • This prophylactic treatment is crucial as these infections can lead to severe complications, including blindness. • The application is typically done within the first hour after birth to ensure maximum effectiveness. Infection Prevention in Newborns • Hand washing is the most effective method to prevent neonatal infections; healthcare providers must adhere to strict hygiene protocols. • Other infection control measures include using sterile equipment and maintaining a clean environment during procedures. • Educating parents on signs of infection in newborns is essential for early detection and treatment. Maternal Health and Postpartum Care Postpartum Assessment and Care • After cesarean delivery, monitoring for constipation is important; greenish-black stools may indicate iron supplementation effects. • The practical nurse should document stool characteristics and report any abnormalities to the healthcare provider. • Fundal height assessment is critical; a distended bladder can lead to excessive bleeding, n