The nurse is caring for a newborn born at 30 weeks' gestation.
Which assessment finding should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A rationale

Elevating the head reduces the risk of aspiration by preventing stomach contents, including gastric juices, from entering the lungs. This position is essential for infants with tracheoesophageal fistula due to the abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus, which increases aspiration risk.

Choice B rationale

Facilitating food digestion is not the primary goal of this positioning. Gastric motility and digestion are unaffected by head elevation, making this rationale irrelevant to the question. Therefore, this is not the correct choice.

Choice C rationale

While head elevation can improve breathing by reducing diaphragm compression, the primary purpose in this context is to prevent aspiration. Lung expansion is a secondary benefit, but it is not the main reason for this position.

Choice D rationale

Reducing stomach pressure is not the key reason for elevating the head in this case. Although head elevation can minimize intra-abdominal pressure, this rationale does not address the critical concern of preventing aspiration in tracheoesophageal fistula. .

Choice A rationale

Postpartum depression is more likely in individuals with a history of depression due to predisposing factors such as neurochemical imbalances and psychosocial stressors. Pregnancy and childbirth exacerbate these vulnerabilities through hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and new parenting stress. Early identification of at-risk populations is critical to prevent severe outcomes and promote maternal mental health.

Choice B rationale

Psychotic behavior is not a common feature of postpartum depression. It is more characteristic of postpartum psychosis, a rare and severe condition that requires immediate intervention. Postpartum depression primarily manifests as feelings of sadness, anxiety, and difficulty bonding with the infant, rather than psychotic symptoms like delusions or hallucinations.

Choice C rationale

Harming the infant is not the most common manifestation of postpartum depression. While intrusive thoughts may occur, the condition primarily presents with emotional symptoms such as hopelessness, guilt, and fatigue. Focused therapy can address these feelings and help prevent rare but severe outcomes involving harm.

Choice D rationale

Postpartum depression typically develops within 1–4 weeks after delivery, with symptoms often emerging gradually. The claim that it begins within 48 hours is inaccurate and more representative of the "baby blues," a transient and less severe condition. Accurate diagnosis involves monitoring symptom progression over time. .