A nurse is teaching a client who is scheduled for an amniocentesis about the purpose of a lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio test.
Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A rationale

Acrocyanosis, characterized by bluish discoloration of the hands and feet, is a common and usually benign finding in newborns, especially shortly after birth due to immature peripheral circulation. It does not typically indicate neonatal abstinence syndrome, which is a neurological and systemic hyperexcitability response to opioid withdrawal.

Choice B rationale

Hypotonia, or decreased muscle tone, is generally a sign of central nervous system depression or neuromuscular disorder. In contrast, newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome typically exhibit hypertonia, characterized by increased muscle tone, tremors, and hyperreflexia, due to the overstimulation of the central nervous system following cessation of maternal opioid exposure.

Choice C rationale

An exaggerated Moro reflex, characterized by an overly robust and prolonged startle response, is a common manifestation of central nervous system irritability seen in newborns experiencing neonatal abstinence syndrome. This hyperreflexia is a direct result of the withdrawal symptoms, indicating an overactive nervous system in response to the absence of the previously supplied opioid.

Choice D rationale

Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is a frequent finding in newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome. This symptom is often attributed to central nervous system irritability and increased metabolic demand associated with withdrawal, leading to respiratory distress. The respiratory rate often exceeds the normal range of 30-60 breaths per minute.

Choice E rationale

A shrill-pitched cry, often described as inconsolable or high-pitched, is a classic and distinctive symptom of neonatal abstinence syndrome. This abnormal cry pattern is indicative of central nervous system irritation and dysregulation, reflecting the newborn's discomfort and hyperirritability stemming from opioid withdrawal. This cry often differs from a typical hunger or discomfort cry.

A. The bladder is distended upon palpation: A distended bladder suggests urinary retention, not effective voiding. This may impair uterine contraction and increase the risk of hemorrhage.
B. The uterine fundus is 2 cm above the umbilicus: A high-rising fundus may indicate a full bladder that is displacing the uterus, often due to incomplete voiding.
C. The client does not feel the urge to urinate: Lack of urge may indicate altered bladder sensation, a potential complication after catheter removal and childbirth.
D. The client urinates 30 mL/hr: Urine output of ≥30 mL/hr is considered adequate and reflects effective voiding and kidney function, especially in the postpartum period.