A newborn is being assessed for risk of hyperbilirubinemia. The infant has both caput succedaneum and a cephalohematoma. The nurse understands that phototherapy is more likely to be required in which condition, and why?
Caput succedaneum can lead to severe bruising and therefore often requires phototherapy.
Neither condition increases bilirubin levels so phototherapy is not needed for either.
Phototherapy is more likely needed with caput succedaneum because it increases blood cell breakdown under the scalp.
Cephalohematoma increases the risk of hyperbilirubinemia due to the breakdown of trapped red blood cells, which may require phototherapy.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Caput succedaneum is incorrect because this condition is a diffuse swelling of the scalp that crosses suture lines and is caused by pressure during delivery. It usually resolves on its own within a few days and does not significantly increase bilirubin levels or require phototherapy.
B. Neither condition increases bilirubin levels is incorrect because cephalohematoma can significantly elevate bilirubin due to red blood cell breakdown within the localized hematoma. While caput succedaneum has minimal impact, cephalohematoma can contribute to hyperbilirubinemia.
C. Phototherapy is more likely needed with caput succedaneum is incorrect because the swelling in caput succedaneum does not contain trapped blood and therefore does not cause significant hemolysis or increase bilirubin levels.
D. Cephalohematoma increases the risk of hyperbilirubinemia is correct because cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between the skull and periosteum that is confined by suture lines. The trapped red blood cells break down over time, releasing bilirubin into the bloodstream. This delayed bilirubin rise can become significant and often requires phototherapy to prevent complications such as kernicterus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Pull the baby out forcefully by the head with forceps is incorrect because forceful traction can cause severe injury to the baby, including brachial plexus injury, clavicle fracture, or intracranial hemorrhage. This is not recommended for shoulder dystocia.
B. Apply gentle upward traction on the baby's head is incorrect because while gentle traction is part of standard delivery, upward traction alone is usually insufficient to resolve shoulder dystocia and may risk injury if used improperly.
C. Wait for the mother to push the shoulders out naturally is incorrect because shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency. Delaying intervention can lead to hypoxia, birth asphyxia, or fetal injury, so immediate maneuvers are required.
D. Place the mother in McRoberts maneuver position and apply suprapubic pressure is correct. The McRoberts maneuver involves flexing the mother’s hips tightly toward her abdomen, which flattens the sacral promontory and increases the pelvic diameter. Simultaneously, suprapubic pressure helps dislodge the impacted anterior shoulder. This is the first-line, evidence-based intervention for shoulder dystocia and reduces the risk of fetal and maternal complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increasing the child’s intake of high-fat foods is incorrect as the primary concern in this scenario is acute respiratory compromise, not malnutrition. While high-calorie, high-fat diets are important for CF management to address nutritional deficits, this intervention does not immediately improve airway clearance or reduce respiratory symptoms.
B. Encouraging increased fluid intake is partially correct because hydration helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear. However, hydration alone is insufficient for managing acute airway obstruction, especially when the child has decreased breath sounds and increased respiratory secretions.
C. Administering inhaled corticosteroids is incorrect as these reduce airway inflammation over time but are not the first-line intervention for acute mucus obstruction or compromised ventilation. They are adjunctive therapy rather than the priority in acute management.
D. Initiating chest physiotherapy (CPT) is correct because CF causes thick, sticky mucus that obstructs the airways, leading to infection and decreased oxygenation. CPT, including percussion, vibration, and postural drainage, helps mobilize mucus, improve ventilation, prevent atelectasis, and reduce the risk of further respiratory complications. This is considered the priority nursing intervention for acute respiratory exacerbations in CF.
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