A father asks the nurse how the baby can exist in fluid for so long without resulting in some harmful effects on the skin.
The nurse's best reply would be:
A soft lanugo hair protects the skin from exposure to the amniotic fluid.
We will apply cream to the baby's skin after delivery to make it smooth and soft.
The baby's skin is covered with a protective fatty substance called vernix caseosa.
There is a thick layer of subcutaneous fat on the baby so the water doesn't harm the skin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Lanugo is a fine hair that covers the fetus but does not primarily protect the skin from amniotic fluid exposure. It mainly helps in thermoregulation and the adherence of the vernix caseosa.
Choice B rationale
While skin care after birth is important, applying cream post-delivery does not explain why the skin is protected during gestation.
Choice C rationale
Vernix caseosa is a protective, cheese-like coating that covers the fetus's skin. It provides a barrier against the amniotic fluid, preventing maceration of the skin during the pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Although subcutaneous fat develops in the fetus, it is not responsible for protecting the skin from amniotic fluid. The primary protective mechanism is the vernix caseosa.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering betamethasone 12 mg IM helps accelerate fetal lung maturity by stimulating the production of surfactant. This is crucial for a preterm baby, as immature lungs are one of the biggest risks in preterm labor. Administering betamethasone can significantly improve neonatal outcomes by reducing respiratory distress syndrome and other complications related to prematurity.
Choice B rationale
Preparing the client for immediate delivery is not the first action as the primary goal in managing preterm labor with an L/S ratio of 1: is to delay labor and enhance fetal lung maturity. Betamethasone administration is prioritized to maximize fetal lung development before considering delivery.
Choice C rationale
Administering hydralazine 25 mg IV is used to manage hypertension and is unrelated to enhancing fetal lung maturity in preterm labor. It is not indicated in this situation as the primary concern is not managing blood pressure.
Choice D rationale
Infusing a bolus of IV fluid might be used to manage preterm labor but does not directly address the need to improve fetal lung maturity. The main priority is administering steroids like betamethasone to expedite fetal lung development.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Heartburn is common due to the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter caused by progesterone, but quickening (the first movement of the fetus felt by the mother) typically occurs earlier in pregnancy, around 18-20 weeks.
Choice B rationale
Nausea and vomiting are more common in the first trimester due to hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of hCG. These symptoms often decrease as pregnancy progresses.
Choice C rationale
A stuffy nose and bleeding gums can occur due to increased blood volume and hormonal changes affecting mucous membranes, but these are more noticeable in the earlier stages of pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Constipation and hemorrhoids are common in the third trimester. The growing uterus can put pressure on the rectum and intestines, slowing down bowel movements and increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
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