Question

The PNP is examining a newborn infant recently discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit after premature birth. The parent is upset and expresses worry about whether the infant will be normal. What will the nurse practitioner do in this situation?

A) Downplay the parent's concerns
B) Provide reassurance and education
C) Refer the parent to a mental health professional
D) Order additional diagnostic tests for the infant

Answer 1

The nurse practitioner should provide reassurance and education to address parental concerns about a newborn infant's future health and development. Referral to a mental health professional or ordering additional diagnostic tests is not the first step unless indications warrant such actions.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) is examining a newborn infant, especially one discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) after a premature birth, the PNP should address parental concerns with care and compassion. If a parent expresses worry about the infant's future health and development, the PNP should provide reassurance and education. It is vital to listen to the parent's concerns, provide information about the infant's current condition, discuss developmental expectations, and outline steps for monitoring progress. Referral to a mental health professional is not the primary course of action unless there are indications of distress that warrant it. Immediately ordering additional diagnostic tests would not be appropriate without cause.

Parents of newborns, particularly those who were premature, may benefit from detailed explanations about infancy development, the uses and interpretations of the Apgar test, the normal processes involved in the umbilical cord falling off, and understanding the physical characteristics of a neonate. Education and reassurance can alleviate parental anxiety and establish a foundation for ongoing support and care.