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 B
Explanation
Juvenile arthritis should be suspected in a child who exhibits joint swelling and pain lasting
longer than 6 weeks. Juvenile arthritis refers to a group of chronic inflammatory conditions
that affect the joints in children and adolescents. Persistent joint swelling and pain are
common symptoms of juvenile arthritis and are often accompanied by other signs such as
morning stiffness, limited range of motion, and joint warmth.
, frequent fractures in (option A) is not correct because it, is not typically associated with
juvenile arthritis. Fractures are more commonly associated with conditions affecting bone
strength, such as osteoporosis or certain genetic disorders.
lurching and abnormal gait with limited abduction in (option A) is not correct because it,
may be seen in certain musculoskeletal conditions or hip joint abnormalities, but it is not
specific to juvenile arthritis.
increased joint mobility in (option D) is incorrect because it, is not typically associated with
juvenile arthritis. In fact, joint stiffness and limited range of motion are more characteristic of
this condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The most important factor in determining the rate of fluid replacement in a dehydrated child
is urine output. Urine output is a crucial indicator of renal perfusion and hydration status.
Monitoring urine output allows healthcare professionals to assess the child's response to fluid
replacement therapy and adjust the rate accordingly.
The type of dehydration in (Option A) is incorrect. The type of dehydration, is important in
determining the appropriate fluid composition for rehydration but does not directly dictate the
rate of fluid replacement.
The child’s weight in (Option B) is incorrect. The child's weight, is considered when
calculating the maintenance fluid requirements, but it does not solely determine the rate of
fluid replacement for dehydration.
Serum potassium level in (Option D) is incorrect. The serum potassium level, is important to
monitor in a dehydrated child, especially in cases of severe dehydration, as electrolyte
imbalances may occur. However, it is not the most important factor in determining the rate of
fluid replacement. Fluid replacement is primarily guided by assessing the child's hydration
status through parameters such as urine output and clinical assessment.
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