A nurse is assessing the fontanels of a crying newborn and notes that the posterior fontanel pulsates and briefly bulges. What do these findings indicate?
Increased intracranial pressure
Dehydration
Overhydration
These are normal findings
The Correct Answer is D
A. Increased intracranial pressurE. Pulsation and bulging of the fontanel may be signs of
increased intracranial pressure in infants. However, it is important to differentiate between normal fontanel characteristics and abnormal signs of elevated intracranial pressure. In this case, the pulsation and bulging are likely normal responses to crying and changes in intracranial pressure during the newborn period.
B. Dehydration: Dehydration typically presents with sunken fontanels rather than pulsation and bulging. Dehydration is a serious condition that requires prompt assessment and intervention, but it is not indicated by the findings described in the scenario.
C. Overhydration: Overhydration is not typically associated with pulsation and bulging of the fontanel. Overhydration may lead to fluid overload and edema but does not directly affect fontanel characteristics.
D. These are normal findings: Pulsation and brief bulging of the fontanel in response to crying are considered normal findings in newborns. Fontanels allow for the flexibility of the skull bones during childbirth and provide space for brain growth during infancy. Pulsation and bulging may occur temporarily during crying or changes in intracranial pressure and are not necessarily
indicative of pathology.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "This is a primitive reflex known as the palmar grasp.": The palmar grasp reflex is a primitive reflex observed in newborns where they automatically grasp onto objects (or fingers) that touch
their palms. This reflex typically disappears by around 6 months of age.
B. "This is a protective reflex known as rooting.": Rooting is a reflex where newborns turn their head and open their mouth in response to cheek or mouth stimulation, facilitating breastfeeding. It is not related to grasping objects with the hands.
C. "This is a primitive reflex known as the plantar grasp.": The plantar grasp reflex is similar to the palmar grasp but occurs when pressure is applied to the sole of the foot. It is unrelated to grasping objects with the hands.
D. "This is a protective reflex known as the Moro reflex.": The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, involves the newborn's arms and legs extending and then flexing in response to a sudden movement or loud noise. It is not related to grasping objects with the hands.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Can you stand very still while I feel how warm you are?": Toddlers may have difficulty understanding abstract requests or instructions. Asking a toddler to stand still to feel warmth may not effectively communicate the purpose of the assessment and may lead to confusion or
resistance.
B. "I am going to listen to your heart.": This statement provides clear, simple language that the toddler can understand. It prepares the child for the assessment and helps establish trust and cooperation.
C. "Can I listen to your lungs?": While this statement is appropriate for assessing respiratory sounds, it may not be as clear or specific as stating the intention to listen to the heart. Toddlers may not understand the term "lungs" as readily as "heart."
D. "I am going to take your blood pressure now.": This statement may cause anxiety or fear in the toddler, especially if they are unfamiliar with the procedure. It is important to prepare the child for each aspect of the assessment in a developmentally appropriate manner.
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