Choice A rationale: A postmature newborn, or one born after 42 weeks of gestation, is likely to exhibit cracked, peeling skin due to the prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid and the absence of vernix. This makes Choice A the correct answer, as it reflects the expected findings for a postmature newborn.

Choice B rationale: Abundant lanugo is typically seen in preterm infants, not postmature infants. Lanugo is a fine, downy hair that covers the fetus and usually disappears by 37 weeks of gestation. Therefore, Choice B is not an expected finding for a postmature newborn.

Choice C rationale: Short, soft fingernails are characteristic of preterm infants. In postmature infants, fingernails are generally long and may extend beyond the fingertips due to prolonged gestation. This makes Choice C an incorrect answer for the expected findings of a postmature newborn.

Choice D rationale: Abundant vernix is typically seen in preterm and term infants. Vernix is a white, cheesy substance that covers the fetal skin to protect it from amniotic fluid. Postmature infants usually have minimal to no vernix present, as it has already been absorbed. Therefore, Choice D is not an expected finding for a postmature newborn.

Choice A rationale

Turning the newborn on his side is a good practice to prevent aspiration, but it is not the first action to take. The newborn’s airway must be clear first to ensure proper breathing.

Choice B rationale

Suctioning the mouth with a bulb syringe is the priority action when a newborn has secretions bubbling out of the nose and mouth. This action helps clear the airway and allows the newborn to breathe more easily.

Choice C rationale

Suctioning the nose with a bulb syringe is also important, but the mouth should be suctioned first. This is because the newborn could aspirate oral secretions during inhalation if the mouth is not suctioned first.

Choice D rationale

Using a suction catheter with low negative pressure is not the first action to take. A bulb syringe is usually sufficient to clear the newborn’s airway of secretions.