A nurse is caring for a newborn who is at 34 weeks of gestation, weighs 1,550 g, and has nasal flaring, intercostal retractions, expiratory grunting, and mild cyanosis. The nurse should place the newborn in an incubator for which of the following reasons?
The newborn's temperature control mechanism is immature.
Heat increases the flow of oxygen to the newborn's extremities.
The newborn has a small body surface for his weight.
Heat facilitates the drainage of mucus for a premature newborn.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Placing the newborn in an incubator is essential because the newborn's temperature control mechanism is immature. Premature infants have an underdeveloped thermoregulatory system, making them susceptible to heat loss and cold stress. An incubator provides a controlled, warm environment to maintain the newborn's body temperature within the normal range (around 36.5°C to 37.5°C or 97.7°F to 99.5°F).
Choice B rationale:
Heat increasing the flow of oxygen to the newborn's extremities is not a valid reason for placing the newborn in an incubator. Oxygenation is primarily influenced by respiratory and circulatory mechanisms, not external heat.
Choice C rationale:
The newborn's small body surface area for his weight is not directly related to the need for an incubator. Premature infants have a higher surface area to weight ratio, making them more prone to heat loss, but this is not the primary reason for using an incubator.
Choice D rationale:
Heat facilitating the drainage of mucus is not a reason for placing the newborn in an incubator. Proper positioning and suctioning are used to manage mucus in premature infants, but incubators are primarily for temperature regulation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rooting. Choice A rationale:
The Moro reflex is a startle reflex characterized by the infant's sudden extension and abduction of the arms in response to a loud noise or sudden movement. It is not involved in the initiation of sucking and is unrelated to breastfeeding.
Choice B rationale:
The rooting reflex is a crucial reflex that helps initiate sucking in newborns. When the infant's cheek is stroked or touched, they will turn their head toward the stimulus and open their mouth, preparing for feeding. This reflex helps the infant find the mother's nipple and begin breastfeeding effectively.
Choice C rationale:
The stepping reflex is a primitive reflex observed in newborns when held upright with their feet touching a solid surface. The baby will make stepping movements, mimicking walking. However, this reflex is not related to the initiation of sucking and breastfeeding.
Choice D rationale:
The Babinski reflex is a reflex in which the big toe extends upward and the other toes fan out when the sole of the foot is stimulated. This reflex is present in newborns and disappears as the child grows older. It is not involved in the initiation of sucking.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A: Warm the bottle in the microwave.
- Rationale: Warming bottles in the microwave is not recommended. Microwaving can cause uneven heating, creating hot spots in the milk or formula that can burn the baby's mouth. Instead, bottles should be warmed by placing them in a container of warm water or using a bottle warmer.
Choice B: Store prepared bottles in the refrigerator.
- Correct
- Rationale: Prepared bottles of formula should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth. Formula should be used within 24 hours of preparation when properly stored in the refrigerator.
Choice C: Discard unused formula in used bottle after 2 hours.
- Correct
- Rationale: Any unused formula that has been in contact with the baby’s mouth should be discarded after 2 hours due to the risk of bacterial contamination. Bacteria from the baby's saliva can grow in the leftover formula.
Choice D: Never prop a bottle.
- Correct
- Rationale: Bottles should never be propped up and left in the baby’s mouth. This practice increases the risk of choking, ear infections, and tooth decay. Caregivers should always hold the bottle and the baby during feedings.
Choice E: Formula is available in three forms.
- Correct
- Rationale: Formula is available in three forms: powdered, concentrated liquid, and ready-to-feed. Parents should be informed of these options so they can choose the most convenient or appropriate form based on their needs.
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