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    RN HESI Paediatrics Proctored Exam 2

    An infant born 2 days ago has not passed a meconium stool and begins to vomit bilious secretions. Which action should the nurse take first?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Gathering supplies for an Intravenous (IV) infusion may be necessary if the infant becomes dehydrated or requires fluid resuscitation, but it is not the first action to take when there are concerns about a potential intestinal obstruction. B. Measure abdominal circumference. The infant's failure to pass meconium stool and the vomiting of bilious secretions are concerning signs that could indicate an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract. Measuring the abdominal circumference is an essential initial assessment to determine if there is abdominal distension or enlargement, which can be a sign of an obstruction. Abdominal distention can help the healthcare provider assess the severity of the issue and make informed decisions regarding further diagnostic tests and interventions. C. Preparing for anorectal manometry is not the first step in this situation. Anorectal manometry is a diagnostic test that may be considered later, depending on the findings and the healthcare provider's assessment. D. Monitoring strict urinary output is not the primary concern in this case; the focus should be on assessing the infant's gastrointestinal status and potential bowel obstruction. The nurse should promptly measure the infant's abdominal circumference to assess for signs of abdominal distension or obstruction and then communicate these findings to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.

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