A nurse is assessing a newborn 1 hour after birth.
The nurse recognizes that which of the following respiratory rates is within the expected reference range for a newborn?

Choice A rationale

Hypoglycemia is a common complication in newborns, especially those who are 8 hours old. The newborn’s body has not yet fully developed the ability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia.

Choice B rationale

Neonatal abstinence syndrome is typically seen in newborns exposed to addictive illegal or prescription drugs while in the mother’s womb. Without additional context, it’s not clear if this applies to the newborn in question.

Choice C rationale

Hyperbilirubinemia, or jaundice, is a condition that can occur in newborns, usually a few days after birth. However, it’s less likely to develop within the first 8 hours of life.

Choice D rationale

Drug withdrawal symptoms are similar to neonatal abstinence syndrome and occur in newborns who have been exposed to certain drugs while in the womb. Again, without additional context, it’s not clear if this applies to the newborn in question.

Choice A rationale

Spina bifida is indeed an example of a neural tube defect. It occurs when the neural tube doesn’t close completely somewhere along the spine during fetal development. This is the correct answer.

Choice B rationale

Cerebral palsy is not a neural tube defect. It is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture.

Choice C rationale

Muscular dystrophy is not a neural tube defect. It is a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.

Choice D rationale

Hydrocephalus is not a neural tube defect. It is a condition in which an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) occurs within the brain.