A nurse is assisting to collect data for a gestational age assessment on a newborn. Which of the following should the nurse check during a neuromuscular assessment? (Select all that apply.)
Heel to ear
Popliteal angle
Moro reflex
Scarf sign
Arm recoil
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
Choice A reason:
Heel to ear is a test that measures the flexibility of the newborn's hip and knee joints. The nurse should gently flex the newborn's hip and knee and bring the foot toward the ear on the same side. The closer the foot is to the ear, the higher the score. This test is part of the neuromuscular assessment for gestational age.
Choice B reason:
Popliteal angle is a test that measures the angle of flexion at the knee joint. The nurse should flex the newborn's hip and knee at 90 degrees and then extend the lower leg until resistance is felt. The smaller the angle, the higher the score. This test is also part of the neuromuscular assessment for gestational age.
Choice C reason:
Moro reflex is a test that evaluates the newborn's startle response. The nurse should hold the newborn in a semi-sitting position and then allow the head to fall back slightly. The newborn should extend and abduct the arms and legs, then flex and adduct them. This test is not part of the neuromuscular assessment for gestational age, but rather a reflex assessment for neurological function. •
Choice D reason:
Scarf sign is a test that measures the flexibility of the newborn's shoulder and elbow joints. The nurse should draw one of the newborn's arms across the chest toward the opposite shoulder. The farther the elbow can be moved across the body, the lower the score. This test is part of the neuromuscular assessment for gestational age.
Choice E reason:
Arm recoil is a test that measures the degree of flexion at the elbow joint. The nurse should extend both of the newborn's arms for 5 seconds and then release them. The arms should return to a flexed position quickly and fully. The faster and more complete the recoil, the higher the score. This test is part of the neuromuscular assessment for gestational age.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The newborn has hypotonia. This is not a specific sign of brachial plexus injury, as hypotonia can have many other causes, such as genetic disorders, infections, or brain damage.
Hypotonia is a general term for low muscle tone or weakness, which can affect the whole body or specific parts.
Choice B reason:
The newborn does not demonstrate the Moro reflex. This is a sign of brachial plexus injury, especially if it affects only one arm. The Moro reflex is a startle response that causes the baby to throw out the arms and legs, then curl them in when startled. A brachial plexus injury can impair the nerve function in the shoulder, arm, or hand, leading to decreased movement or sensation in the upper extremity. If the baby does not show the Moro reflex on one side, it may indicate damage to the upper brachial plexus nerves (C5-C7), also known as Erb's palsy.
Choice C reason:
The newborn cries continually. This is not a specific sign of brachial plexus injury, as crying can have many other causes, such as hunger, discomfort, or colic. Crying is a normal way for babies to communicate their needs and feelings. Crying does not necessarily indicate pain from a brachial plexus injury, as infants' nerves behave differently from adults' and they may not experience much pain from this condition.
Choice D reason:
The newborn has tremors. This is not a specific sign of brachial plexus injury, as tremors can have many other causes, such as cold temperature, low blood sugar, or withdrawal from maternal medications. Tremors are involuntary movements of the muscles that can affect the whole body or specific parts. Tremors do not necessarily indicate nerve damage from a brachial plexus injury, as this condition usually causes weakness or paralysis of the affected muscles.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Swimming is one of the best and safest exercises for pregnant women. It exercises your large muscle groups, provides cardiovascular benefits, reduces swelling, and allows you to feel weightless. Swimming is also a low-impact exercise that does not put too much stress on your joints and muscles. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for additional teaching.
Choice B reason:
Racquetball is not an appropriate exercise during pregnancy. It is a high-impact sport that involves sudden changes of direction, quick movements, and the risk of falling or getting hit by the ball or the racquet. These factors can increase the chance of injury, bleeding, or premature labor. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for additional teaching.
Choice C reason:
Cycling on a stationary bike is a safe exercise during pregnancy. It provides moderate aerobic conditioning and relieves stress and tension in your joints and muscles. Cycling on a stationary bike also reduces the risk of falling or losing balance compared to cycling on a regular bike. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for additional teaching.
Choice D reason:
Yoga is a beneficial exercise during pregnancy. It can help you relax, improve your flexibility, strengthen your muscles, and prepare your body for labor and delivery. Yoga can also help you cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety during pregnancy. However, you should avoid hot yoga or poses that involve lying flat on your back, twisting your abdomen, or compressing your belly. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for additional teaching.
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