A neonate is displaying mottled skin, has a large fontanel and tongue, is lethargic, and is having difficulty feeding. The nurse recognizes that this is most suggestive of which disorder?
Hypoglycaemia
Hypothyroidism
Hypocalcaemia
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
The Correct Answer is B
Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid gland that does not produce enough thyroid hormones. In newborns, this condition is known as congenital hypothyroidism. The symptoms mentioned—mottled skin, a large fontanel (soft spot on the baby's head), a large tongue, lethargy, and difficulty feeding—are characteristic of hypothyroidism inneonates.
Mottled skin can occur due to decreased circulation and low body temperature associated with hypothyroidism. A large fontanel and tongue are common physical features seen in infants with hypothyroidism. Lethargy and poor feeding are also typical signs of this condition.
Hypoglycaemia in (option A) is incorrect because it refers to low blood sugar levels and usually presents withdifferent symptoms such as jitteriness, tremors, and sweating.
Hypocalcaemia in (option C) is incorrect because it is low calcium levels and can manifest with symptoms like muscle cramps, twitching, and seizures.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) in (option D) it is incorrect because it is a metabolic disorder characterized by the inability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, and it typically presents with different symptoms such as intellectual disability and a musty door to the skin.
Therefore, based on the symptoms described, hypothyroidism (B) is the most likely disorder in this neonate. It isimportant to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The statement that best describes Tanner staging is option B. Tanner staging is a system used
to classify and assess the progression of puberty based on the development of both primary
and secondary sexual characteristics. It provides a framework for evaluating the physical
changes that occur during puberty, such as breast development in females, testicular
enlargement in males, pubic hair growth, and other secondary sexual characteristics. The
Tanner staging system includes several stages that represent the sequential progression of
puberty in individuals.
staging of puberty based on the initiation of primary sexual characteristics in (option A) is not
correct because it, does not encompass the full scope of Tanner staging, as it does not
consider the progression of secondary sexual characteristics.
staging of puberty based on the initiation of menarche (the onset of menstruation) and
nocturnal emissions, in (option C) is not correct. While menarche and nocturnal emissions are
significant events that occur during puberty, they do not encompass the entire Tanner staging
system, which involves a broader range of physical changes.
predictable stages of puberty based on chronologic age, in (option D) is not correct. Tanner
staging is based on the progression of physical changes and sexual maturation, rather than
being solely determined by chronological age. Puberty can vary in onset and duration among
individuals, making chronological age an unreliable indicator of pubertal development.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The first sign of pubertal change seen with boys is testicular enlargement. This is known as testicular or scrotal growth and is one of the earliest physical signs of puberty in boys. Testicular enlargement is followed by other changes such as the growth of pubic hair, penile growth, voice deepening, and facial hair growth.
voice deepening in (option A) is incorrect because it, typically occurs after testicular enlargement and is associated with the growth and development of the larynx during puberty.
scrotal enlargement in (option B) is incorrect because it, may occur simultaneously or shortly after testicular enlargement as part of overall genital growth during puberty.
, facial hair growth in (option C) is incorrect because it, is a later sign of pubertal development in boys and typically occurs after the initial testicular enlargement and growth of pubic hair.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today