Which is true about newborns classified as small for gestational age (SGA)?
They are born before 38 weeks of gestation.
Placental malfunction is the only recognized cause of this condition.
They weigh less than 2500 g.
They are below the 10th percentile on gestational growth charts.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice a) They are born before 38 weeks of gestation is incorrect because this is not the definition of SGA. SGA refers to newborns who have a birth weight or length that is significantly lower than expected for their gestational age, regardless of when they are born. Therefore, a newborn can be SGA even if they are born at term or post-term.
Choice b) Placental malfunction is the only recognized cause of this condition is incorrect because this is not the only factor that can contribute to SGA. Placental malfunction can cause fetal growth restriction due to insufficient blood supply and nutrients to the fetus, but there are other possible causes such as maternal factors (e.g.,
hypertension, diabetes, smoking, malnutrition), fetal factors (e.g., chromosomal abnormalities, infections, congenital anomalies), and environmental factors (e.g., altitude, pollution, stress).
Choice c) They weigh less than 2500 g is incorrect because this is not the criterion for SGA. SGA is based on the comparison of the newborn's weight or length with the expected values for their gestational age, not on an absolute cutoff. Therefore, a newborn can be SGA even if they weigh more than 2500 g, as long as they are below the 10th percentile for their gestational age.
Choice d) They are below the 10th percentile on gestational growth charts is correct because this is the most commonly used definition of SGA. Gestational growth charts are tools that plot the expected weight or length of a fetus or newborn according to their gestational age and sex. They are based on population data and can vary
depending on the ethnicity and region of origin of the mother and the baby. A newborn who falls below the 10th percentile on these charts is considered SGA, meaning that they have grown less than 90% of their peers .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A) Weight gain of 0.5 kg during the past 2 weeks: This is a normal weight gain for a pregnant woman and does not indicate preeclampsia.
Choice B) Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day: This is a common symptom of pregnancy and does not necessarily indicate preeclampsia. It can be relieved by elevating the legs and wearing compression stockings.
Choice C) Blood pressure increase to 138/86 mm Hg: This is a mild elevation of blood pressure and does not meet the criteria for preeclampsia, which is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher on two occasions at least four hours apart.
Choice D) Dipstick value of 3+ for protein in her urine: This is a sign of significant proteinuria, which is one of the main features of preeclampsia. Proteinuria is defined as a urinary protein excretion of 300 mg or more in 24 hours or a dipstick reading of 1+ or higher. A dipstick value of 3+ indicates severe proteinuria and requires immediate attention and treatment. This woman has the highest risk of developing complications from preeclampsia, such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, placental abruption, or fetal growth restriction . Therefore, she should be seen by the nurse first.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice a) Have the parent fold the infant's arms across the chest is incorrect because this is not a helpful way to calm a preterm infant. Folding the arms across the chest can restrict the infant's breathing and movement, and may increase their stress and discomfort. Preterm infants need gentle and supportive touch, not restraint or pressure.
Choice b) Encourage the parent to place the infant back in the warmer is incorrect because this is not a necessary or beneficial action for a preterm infant who is showing signs of overstimulation. Placing the infant back in the warmer can interrupt the bonding and attachment process between the parent and the infant, and may make the infant feel more isolated and insecure. Preterm infants need close and frequent contact with their parents, not separation or detachment.
Choice c) Encourage the parent to do kangaroo care is correct because this is an effective and evidence-based method of soothing and stabilizing a preterm infant who is experiencing overstimulation. Kangaroo care is a technique where the parent holds the infant skin-to-skin on their chest, providing warmth, comfort, and security. Kangaroo care can reduce the infant's stress hormones, lower their heart rate and blood pressure, improve their oxygenation and breathing, enhance their growth and development, and strengthen their bond with their parent.
Choice d) Cover the infant with a warm bed blanket is incorrect because this is not a sufficient or optimal way to comfort a preterm infant who is displaying signs of overstimulation. Covering the infant with a warm bed blanket can provide some warmth and protection, but it does not offer the same benefits as kangaroo care. A warm bed blanket cannot mimic the parent's heartbeat, voice, smell, and movement, which are essential for the infant's emotional and physiological well-being. Preterm infants need human touch and interaction, not just physical warmth.
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