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A newborn’s assessment reveals spina bifida occulta.
Which maternal factor should the nurse identify as having the greatest impact on the development of this newborn complication?

A.

Preeclampsia

B.

Tobacco use

C.

Folic acid deficiency

D.

Short interval pregnancy

E.

Short interval pregnancy

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale 
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. While it can have serious implications for the mother and baby, it is not directly linked to the development of spina bifida occulta in the newborn. 
Choice B rationale 
Tobacco use during pregnancy can lead to several complications, including low birth weight, preterm birth, and certain birth defects. However, it is not identified as a significant risk factor for spina bifida occulta. 
Choice C rationale 
Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy is a well-known risk factor for neural tube defects, including spina bifida. Spina bifida occulta is a mild form of spina bifida caused by a gap forming between the vertebrae in the spinal cord during fetal development. Adequate intake of folic acid, especially during the early stages of pregnancy, can help prevent such defects. 
Choice D rationale 
Short interval pregnancy refers to pregnancies that are closely spaced. While they can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight, they are not directly associated with an increased risk of spina bifida occulta. 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is ["B","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Both mother and daughter shedding tears of joy and gratitude may not necessarily indicate a healthy psychosocial adaptation. While it could be a sign of relief or happiness, it could also be a response to stress or fear.
Choice B rationale
The mother expressing her full support for her daughter can be a positive sign of psychosocial adaptation. Support from family members can play a crucial role in coping with and adapting to health-related challenges.
Choice C rationale
The mother appearing sad does not necessarily indicate a healthy psychosocial adaptation. It could be a normal reaction to her daughter’s discomfort, but it could also suggest that she is struggling to cope with the situation.
Choice D rationale
The patient giving birth to a healthy baby boy is not relevant to the question as it does not provide information about the psychosocial adaptation of the mother or the daughter.
Choice E rationale
The mother commending her daughter can be a positive sign of psychosocial adaptation. Positive reinforcement can help individuals cope with challenging situations and foster a sense of self-efficacy.
Choice F rationale
Both mother and daughter gently touching the baby’s cheek is not relevant to the question as it does not provide information about the psychosocial adaptation of the mother or the daughter.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Monitoring the capillary refill of the toes is crucial when a child has a long-leg cast applied. This is because it helps assess the adequacy of circulation to the foot, which can be compromised by the cast. If the capillary refill is delayed (more than 2 seconds), it could indicate poor blood flow to the area, which could lead to serious complications such as tissue necrosis.
Choice B rationale
Comparing the temperature of both legs can provide information about circulation and inflammation. However, it is not the most important action in this case. While a significant difference in temperature could indicate a problem, it is not as direct an indicator of circulatory status as capillary refill.
Choice C rationale
Observing for spontaneous movement can provide information about nerve function. If the child is not moving the toes, it could indicate nerve damage. However, lack of movement could also be due to discomfort from the cast and is not as direct an indicator of circulatory status as capillary refill.
Choice D rationale
Checking the femoral pulses can provide information about circulation to the leg. However, the femoral pulse is proximal to the cast and may not accurately reflect circulation to the foot. Therefore, it is not the most important action in this case.

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