Preparing for a Newborn with Spina Bifida: What is the Priority Item?

What should the nurse in a newborn nursery place at the newborn's bedside to prepare for the arrival of a newborn with spina bifida?

a. Mobile toys b. A diaper changing station c. A sterile dressing and supplies d. A pacifier

Answer:

The nurse should place a sterile dressing and supplies at the newborn's bedside as the priority item to protect the exposed neural tissue and prevent infection in a newborn with myelomeningocele type spina bifida.

Spina bifida is a birth defect of the spinal cord where the meninges and neural tissue protrude through the vertebral column. As a result, the newborn with myelomeningocele type spina bifida will require immediate medical attention and protection of the exposed neural tissue. Placing a sterile dressing and supplies at the bedside will help prevent infection and provide necessary care for the newborn.