A nurse is caring for a preterm newborn who is in an incubator to maintain a neutral thermal environment. The father of the newborn asks the nurse why this is necessary.
Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
“Preterm newborns have a smaller body surface area than normal newborns”
“Preterm newborns lack adequate temperature control mechanisms”
“The heat in the incubator rapidly dries the sweat of preterm newborns”
“The added brown fat layer in preterm newborn reduces his ability to generate heat” .
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While it is true that preterm newborns have a smaller body surface area than full-term newborns, this is not the primary reason for using an incubator. A smaller body surface area can contribute to heat loss, but the main issue is the lack of adequate temperature control mechanisms.
Choice B rationale
Preterm newborns lack the adequate temperature control mechanisms that full-term newborns have. They have less subcutaneous fat to insulate them and a higher surface area to volume ratio, which increases heat loss. They also lack the ability to shiver to generate heat.
Therefore, an incubator is used to maintain a neutral thermal environment.
Choice C rationale
The heat in the incubator does not rapidly dry the sweat of preterm newborns. In fact, preterm newborns do not sweat as efficiently as full-term newborns or adults, so they are less likely to lose heat through sweating.
Choice D rationale
The statement that the added brown fat layer in preterm newborn reduces his ability to generate heat is incorrect. In fact, preterm newborns have less brown fat than full-term newborns. Brown fat is a type of fat that generates heat when metabolized, and it is an important source of heat for newborns.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Intermittent abdominal pain following the passage of bloody mucus can be a sign of labor or other complications, but it is not a typical finding that supports the diagnosis of placenta previa.
Choice B rationale
Painless red vaginal bleeding is a classic symptom of placenta previa. This occurs because the placenta is covering part or all of the cervix, leading to bleeding as the cervix begins to thin and open in preparation for labor.
Choice C rationale
Abdominal pain with scant red vaginal bleeding could indicate various conditions, but it is not a typical finding that supports the diagnosis of placenta previa.
Choice D rationale
Increasing abdominal pain with a non-relaxed uterus could indicate various conditions, but it is not a typical finding that supports the diagnosis of placenta previa.
Correct Answer is A,B,C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the newborn’s capillary blood glucose level is important, especially for a large for gestational age newborn. Large for gestational age newborns are at risk for hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) after birth. Therefore, regular monitoring of the newborn’s blood glucose level is crucial.
Choice B rationale
Placing the newborn under a radiant warmer can help regulate the baby’s body temperature. Newborns, especially those who are large for gestational age, may have difficulty maintaining their body temperature after birth. A radiant warmer can provide the extra warmth the baby needs.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring the newborn’s temperature is important as newborns can lose heat rapidly, they don’t have the ability to control their body temperature as adults do. Temperature regulation in newborns is important to help them stay healthy and comfortable.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring the newborn’s color and frequency of bowel movements is not directly related to the condition described. While it’s an important aspect of newborn care, it’s not a priority in this scenario.
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