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 D
Explanation
The first sign of pubertal change seen with boys is testicular enlargement. This is known as testicular or scrotal growth and is one of the earliest physical signs of puberty in boys. Testicular enlargement is followed by other changes such as the growth of pubic hair, penile growth, voice deepening, and facial hair growth.
voice deepening in (option A) is incorrect because it, typically occurs after testicular enlargement and is associated with the growth and development of the larynx during puberty.
scrotal enlargement in (option B) is incorrect because it, may occur simultaneously or shortly after testicular enlargement as part of overall genital growth during puberty.
, facial hair growth in (option C) is incorrect because it, is a later sign of pubertal development in boys and typically occurs after the initial testicular enlargement and growth of pubic hair.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Epispadias is a congenital condition in which the urethral opening is not located at the tip of the penis as is typical but rather along the ventral surface (underside) of the penis. In severe cases, the urethral opening may extend all the way to the bladder.
absence of a urethral opening in (option A) is incorrect because it, describes a condition called urethral agenesis or aplasia, where the urethral opening is completely absent. This is a different condition from epispadias.
a penis shorter than usual for age, in (option B) is incorrect because it is not specific to epispadias and could be caused by various factors unrelated to the condition.
a urethral opening along the dorsal surface (topside) of the penis in (option D) is incorrect because it, is a condition called hypospadias. Hypospadias is another congenital anomaly where the urethral opening is located on the underside or along the ventral surface of the penis, but it is not synonymous with epispadias.
Therefore, epispadias specifically refers to the urethral opening being situated along the ventral surface of the penis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today