Page 834 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

newborn’s own blood gradually.
4. Provide support to the parents.
XIX. Sepsis
A. Description: Generalized infection resulting from the presence of
bacteria in the blood, such as Group B streptococcal infection
B. Assessment
1. Pallor
2. Tachypnea, tachycardia
3. Poor feeding
4. Abdominal distention
5. Temperature instability
C. Interventions
1. Assess for periods of apnea or irregular respirations.
2. If apnea is present, stimulate by gently rubbing the
chest or foot.
3. Administer oxygen as prescribed.
4. Monitor vital signs; assess for fever.
5. Maintain warmth in a radiant warmer.
6. Provide isolation as necessary.
7. Monitor intake and output, and obtain daily weight.
8. Monitor for diarrhea.
9. Assess feeding and sucking reflex, which may be poor.
10. Assess for jaundice.
11. Assess for irritability and lethargy.
12. Prepare for blood cultures and administer antibiotics
as prescribed, and observe carefully for toxicity
because a newborn’s liver and kidneys are immature.
XX. TORCH Infections (see Chapter 22)
XXI. Syphilis
A. Description
1. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection.
2. Congenital syphilis can result in premature birth, skin
lesions, and abnormal skeletal development.
3. The causative organism, Treponema pallidum, a
spirochete, is able to cross the placenta throughout
pregnancy and infect the fetus, usually after 18 weeks’
gestation.
4. Risks include preterm birth, stillbirth, and low birth
weight.
5. Congenital effects are irreversible and may include
central nervous system damage and hearing loss.

B. Assessment

1. Hepatosplenomegaly
2. Joint swelling
3. Palmar rash and lesions (Fig. 27-6)
4. Anemia
5. Jaundice

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