A nurse is performing the neuromuscular maturity test on a newborn using the New Ballard Scale.

What does this test evaluate?

Thicker skin and absence of lanugo.Late preterm infants are born at a gestational age between 34 and 36 completed weeks of pregnancy.They have higher morbidity and mortality rates than term infants, but they also have some physical characteristics that distinguish them from very preterm or extremely preterm infants.

Choice B is wrong because leathery and cracked skin is a sign of postmaturity, not prematurity.

Choice C is wrong because underdeveloped breast buds and flat scrotum are signs of very preterm or extremely preterm infants, not late preterm infants.

Choice D is wrong because wrinkled and transparent skin are also signs of very preterm or extremely preterm infants, not late preterm infants.

Normal ranges for gestational age, weight, length and head circumference can be found in the table below:

It determines the gestational age and identifies developmental risks.TheNew Ballard Scaleis a scale that estimates the gestational age of a newborn infant based on physical and neuromuscular characteristics.The scale can be used when there is no reliable obstetrical information or a major discrepancy between the estimated date of delivery and the infant’s appearance.The scale is accurate only within plus or minus 2 weeks and can be used up to 4 days after birth, but usually within the first 24 hours.The scale has been refined and expanded to include extremely premature neonates.

Choice A is wrong because it assesses the newborn’s cognitive development.The New Ballard Scale does not measure cognitive development, but rather physical and neuromuscular maturity.

Choice B is wrong because it evaluates the baby’s physical strength and coordination.The New Ballard Scale does not measure strength and coordination, but rather physical characteristics such as skin, lanugo, plantar surface, breast, eye/ear, and genitals, and neuromuscular characteristics such as posture, square window, arm recoil, popliteal angle, scarf sign, and heel to ear.

Choice C is wrong because it measures the newborn’s respiratory maturity.The New Ballard Scale does not measure respiratory maturity, but rather gestational age based on physical and neuromuscular criteria.