A nurse is providing teaching to the guardians of a preterm newborn about temperature instability. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
Preterm newborns might have a thick layer of brown fat that can cause them to quickly become overheated.
Preterm newborns might shiver to warm up when they get too cool.
Preterm newborns might sweat to cool off when they get too warm.
Preterm newborns might have less muscle tone which exposes more body surfaces to heat loss.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Preterm newborns do not have a thick layer of brown fat. Brown fat is a type of fat that generates heat and is typically found in full-term newborns. It helps them maintain their body temperature. Preterm newborns have less brown fat, which makes them more susceptible to hypothermia.
Choice B rationale
Shivering is a mechanism used by the body to generate heat when it’s cold. However, preterm newborns cannot shiver. Their nervous systems are not fully developed, and they lack the muscle coordination necessary to shiver.
Choice C rationale
Sweating is another mechanism the body uses to regulate temperature. When the body is too warm, it produces sweat to cool down. However, preterm newborns do not sweat to cool off when they get too warm. Their sweat glands are not fully developed, and they may not be able to sweat effectively.
Choice D rationale
Preterm newborns have less muscle tone, which exposes more body surfaces to heat loss. Muscle tone provides insulation and generates heat. Because preterm newborns have less muscle mass, they have less insulation and generate less heat, making them more susceptible to hypothermia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
To calculate the estimated date of delivery using Nägele’s Rule, subtract three months from the first day of the last menstrual period (August 10), and then add seven days. This gives an estimated date of delivery of May 176.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice d. Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Choice A rationale:
Cleansing the site with povidone-iodine is not recommended because it can be irritating and potentially harmful to the exposed neural tissue.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring the rectal temperature every 4 hours is not appropriate as it can increase the risk of infection and trauma to the site. Axillary temperature monitoring is preferred.
Choice C rationale:
Preparing for surgical closure after 72 hours is incorrect. Surgical closure is typically performed within the first 24 to 48 hours to prevent infection and further damage to the neural tissue.
Choice D rationale:
Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial to prevent infection, especially since the cerebrospinal fluid is leaking, which increases the risk of meningitis and other infections.
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