A nurse is caring for a newborn delivered by vaginal birth with vacuum assist. The newborn's mother asks about the swollen area on her son's head. After palpation to identify that the swelling crosses the suture line, which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
Mongolian spots can be found on the skin of many newborns.
Caput succedaneum occurs due to compression of blood vessels.
This is erythema toxicum, which is a transient condition.
This is a cephalohematoma, which can occur spontaneously.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice a reason:
Mongolian spots are a type of pigmented birthmark commonly found in newborns, often appearing as blue or grayish areas on the skin. They are not related to swelling and do not result from vacuum-assisted deliveries. Mongolian spots are usually located on the buttocks or lower back and are not associated with the type of swelling described by the mother.
Choice b reason:
Caput succedaneum is a condition where the newborn's scalp swells due to pressure during delivery. It is characterized by a soft, spongy mass that crosses suture lines and is most apparent on the part of the skull that was first to enter the birth canal. This condition is common in vacuum-assisted deliveries and is the correct explanation for the swelling observed on the newborn's head.
Choice c reason:
Erythema toxicum is a common and benign skin condition in newborns, presenting as red patches or small, fluid-filled bumps. It is not related to the swelling described and does not result from vacuum-assisted deliveries. Erythema toxicum typically resolves on its own and does not cause the type of swelling that crosses suture lines.
Choice d reason:
Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between a newborn's scalp and the skull bone that results from ruptured blood vessels, which can be a result of birth trauma or pressure. However, it is typically confined to one area and does not cross suture lines. Since the swelling described by the mother crosses the suture lines, cephalohematoma is less likely to be the correct diagnosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Encouraging the client to empty her bladder every 2 hours is important because a full bladder can impede the progress of labor and increase the risk of bladder distension, which can lead to postpartum urinary retention or bladder atony. Additionally, a full bladder can obstruct the descent of the fetus and may contribute to labor dystocia. The normal range for urination frequency is typically every 3 to 4 hours, but during labor, more frequent emptying is beneficial.
Choice B reason:
While it may seem intuitive to remind the client to bear down with each contraction to aid in the delivery process, this is not recommended during the active phase of the first stage of labor. Bearing down, or pushing, is generally reserved for the second stage of labor when the cervix is fully dilated. Premature bearing down can lead to maternal exhaustion and increase the risk of cervical edema or lacerations.
Choice C reason:
Maintaining the client in the lithotomy position is not necessary during the active phase of the first stage of labor. This position is typically used during the delivery process in the second stage of labor. During the active phase, the client should be encouraged to find a comfortable position that facilitates labor progress, such as walking, squatting, or using a birthing ball.
Choice D reason:
Performing vaginal examinations frequently is not advised because it can increase the risk of introducing infections and can be uncomfortable for the client. Vaginal examinations should be performed judiciously to assess labor progress, typically not more than every 4 hours unless there is a specific indication to do so.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Iron is not poorly absorbed in infants; in fact, infants absorb iron quite efficiently. Breast milk contains a small amount of iron, but it is highly bioavailable and well-absorbed. When switching to formula, it is important to use iron-fortified options to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Choice B Reason:
While iron is essential for overall growth and development, including bone growth, it is not the primary reason for emphasizing iron in infant nutrition. The key concern with iron, especially when transitioning from breastfeeding, is the prevention of iron deficiency anemia, which can affect cognitive and motor development.
Choice C Reason:
This is the correct information to include in the teaching. Infants are born with a reserve of iron that begins to deplete around 4 to 6 months of age. It is crucial to introduce iron-fortified formula at this time to ensure the infant continues to receive adequate iron for development and to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Choice D Reason:
Iron does play a role in the development of the nervous system, which can indirectly affect vision, but it is not specifically known for facilitating the development of vision in infants. The primary concern with iron intake in infants relates to its role in preventing anemia and supporting overall growth and development.
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