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

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.

Choice A rationale

While an elevated WBC count can indicate an infection, it is not the most important symptom to monitor in a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). ITP is primarily a platelet disorder, and while infection can trigger or exacerbate the condition, an elevated WBC count is not a direct symptom of ITP78.

Choice B rationale

Fever can be a sign of infection, which can trigger or exacerbate ITP. However, it is not the most important symptom to monitor in a patient with ITP78.

Choice C rationale

Ecchymosis, or bruising, is a key symptom of ITP. Because ITP involves a decrease in platelets, which are necessary for clotting, patients with this condition are prone to bruising and bleeding. Therefore, monitoring for ecchymosis is crucial.

Choice D rationale

Fatigue can be a symptom of ITP, but it is not the most important symptom to monitor. While fatigue can impact a patient’s quality of life, it does not directly indicate the severity of the condition.