Editing Pediatric Nursing – LPN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 4==
While obtaining vital signs, the LPN finds that a 2-week-old infant has a rectal temperature of 38.3 degrees Celsius (100.9 degrees Fahrenheit). The infant is feeding a little less than usual. What should the LPN do?
# Remove the infant's blankets and recheck the temperature in 2 hours.
# Report the finding to the registered nurse immediately.
# Document the finding as a normal newborn variation.
# Give the infant extra formula and observe.

'''Answer:''' 2. Report the finding to the registered nurse immediately.

''Rationale:'' A temperature of 38.0 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher in an infant younger than 28 days is a medical emergency requiring urgent evaluation, because young infants can be seriously infected without any localizing signs. The LPN reports promptly so the RN can assess and notify the provider. Options 1, 3, and 4 all delay recognition of possible sepsis.