Health Promotion and Maintenance
16. A neonate is flaccid at delivery and is not breathing. A pediatrician orders positive-pressure ventilation using a mask attached to wall oxygen. While administering the oxygen, in which position should a nurse place the neonate?
. On the left side, with the neck slightly flexed.
. On the back, with the head turned to the left side.
. On the abdomen, with the head down.
. On the back, with the neck slightly extended.
Test-Taking Tip
Picture the positions described and eliminate the ones that prevent air exchange.
Content Area: Child Health, Newborn; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Potential for Complications of Diagnostic Tests/Treatments/Procedures
Health Promotion and Maintenance
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the left side, with the neck slightly flexed, will prevent proper ventilation. Answer 2 is incorrect because the back, with the head turned to the left side, will prevent proper ventilation. Answer 3 is incorrect because placing the neonate on the abdomen, with the head down, will prevent ventilation and may cause suffocation. Answer 4 is correct because placing the neonate on the back, with the neck slightly extended, will open the airway and facilitate ventilation.