A neonate is displaying mottled skin, has a large fontanel and tongue, is lethargic, and is having difficulty feeding. The nurse recognizes that this is most suggestive of which disorder?
Hypoglycaemia
Hypothyroidism
Hypocalcaemia
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
The Correct Answer is B
Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid gland that does not produce enough thyroid hormones. In newborns, this condition is known as congenital hypothyroidism. The symptoms mentioned—mottled skin, a large fontanel (soft spot on the baby's head), a large tongue, lethargy, and difficulty feeding—are characteristic of hypothyroidism inneonates.
Mottled skin can occur due to decreased circulation and low body temperature associated with hypothyroidism. A large fontanel and tongue are common physical features seen in infants with hypothyroidism. Lethargy and poor feeding are also typical signs of this condition.

Hypoglycaemia in (option A) is incorrect because it refers to low blood sugar levels and usually presents withdifferent symptoms such as jitteriness, tremors, and sweating.
Hypocalcaemia in (option C) is incorrect because it is low calcium levels and can manifest with symptoms like muscle cramps, twitching, and seizures.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) in (option D) it is incorrect because it is a metabolic disorder characterized by the inability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, and it typically presents with different symptoms such as intellectual disability and a musty door to the skin.
Therefore, based on the symptoms described, hypothyroidism (B) is the most likely disorder in this neonate. It isimportant to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland and results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones. Treatment for Graves' disease typically involves medications to regulate thyroid function. Adherence to the medication regimen is crucial for managing the disease and controlling symptoms.
By prioritizing the goal of verbalizing the importance of adherence to the medication regimen, the nurse aims to educate the adolescent about the significance of taking medications as prescribed. This education can help the adolescent understand the impact of medication non-adherence on their health and encourage them to actively participate in their treatment.
, developing alternative educational goals in (option B) is incorrect because it, is not directly related to the management of Graves' disease and its treatment.
allowing the adolescent to make decisions about whether or not to take medication in (option C) is incorrect because it, is not appropriate for a condition like Graves' disease where medication adherence is necessary for disease management. In this case, the nurse should focus on providing education and support to help the adolescent understand the importance of medication compliance.
relieving constipation in (option D) is incorrect because it, may be a consideration if constipation is a symptom experienced by the adolescent with Graves' disease. However, it is not the priority nursing goal as compared to ensuring adherence to the medication regimen, which directly addresses the management of Graves' disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The anatomy of the urinary tract can influence the susceptibility to urinary tract infections (UTIs). In the case of young girls, their urethra is shorter compared to adult females, which increases the likelihood of bacteria reaching the bladder. The shorter urethra provides a shorter distance for bacteria to travel from the outside of the body to the bladder, making it easier for bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
Prostatic secretions in males in (option A) is incorrect because they are not directly related to the increased susceptibility to UTIs. Prostatic secretions can, however, contribute to conditions like prostatitis, which is an inflammation of the prostate gland that can be associated with urinary symptoms and sometimes bacterial infections.
Frequent emptying of the bladder in (option C) is incorrect because it is generally considered a healthy practice as it helps to flush out any potential bacteria in the urinary tract. It does not predispose the urinary tract to infection.
Increased fluid intake in (option D) is incorrect because it is generally encouraged to maintain proper hydration and urinary tract health. It can help to flush out bacteria from the urinary system, reducing the risk of infection.
While these factors may have implications for urinary tract health, the specific factor that predisposes the urinary tract to infection, particularly in young girls, is the short urethra (B).

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