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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

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Immediately after delivery, the breasts of a new mother are not likely to remain the same as before delivery. Hormonal changes during pregnancy prepare the breasts for lactation, and these changes do not typically revert immediately after delivery.

Choice B rationale

On the first postpartum day, the breasts of a new mother are most likely to be filling and secreting colostrum. Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands, and it usually starts to be produced during pregnancy and continues during the early days of breastfeeding.

Choice C rationale

An immediate let-down response is not typically observed on the first postpartum day. The letdown reflex, which releases milk from the breast, usually becomes more pronounced after the first few days of breastfeeding.

Choice D rationale

While the breasts may become larger due to milk production, they are not typically very tender to touch on the first postpartum day. Tenderness may occur later, especially if complications like engorgement or mastitis develop.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale
A heart rate of 58 beats/minute is within the normal range for adults, including those who have recently given birth. Therefore, there is no need to report this to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale
While assessing for excessive lochia is important in postpartum care, there is no indication from the given vital signs that this is necessary.
Choice C rationale
The vital signs provided are all within normal ranges for a postpartum patient. Therefore, the appropriate action would be to document these findings in the patient’s record.
Choice D rationale
There is no indication from the given vital signs that the patient has a fever or pain, so administering a PRN dose of acetaminophen is not necessary.

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