On the third day of life, a newborn develops swollen eyelids with thick purulent discharge from both eyes. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: A. Clean the eyes gently and arrange urgent medical treatment
- A. Clean the eyes gently and arrange urgent medical treatment
- B. Cover both eyes with a firm pressure dressing
- C. Reassure the mother that this is normal tearing
- D. Apply breast milk to the eyes and review tomorrow
Explanation
Purulent discharge with swollen eyelids may be serious neonatal conjunctivitis and can damage the cornea rapidly. The eyes should be cleaned with sterile material and urgent treatment arranged; pressure dressings and unprescribed substances can worsen infection.
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About Care of the Newborn
Newborn care covers immediate assessment, Apgar scoring, thermal protection, airway management, cord care, identification, vitamin K, early breastfeeding and neonatal resuscitation. It also includes normal newborn findings, prevention of infection, care of premature or low-birth-weight infants, recognition of danger signs, jaundice and safe discharge counselling.
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