A nursery nurse is attending the birth of a post-term infant

Exhibits

Fill in each blank in the following sentence.

Upon review of the medical record, the nurse should determine the infant newborn is at risk for developing

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and

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.

Rationale:

A. The client advances the walker and takes a step towards it: This is the correct technique for using a walker. The client should move the walker a short distance ahead, then step into it one foot at a time, maintaining balance and stability throughout the motion.

B. The client grasps the walker by the hand grips on the upper bars: Holding the walker by its designated hand grips is safe and appropriate. This ensures proper control of the device and minimizes the risk of slipping or tipping.

C. The client lifts the walker as it is moved forward: Walkers should be lifted and placed rather than dragged to maintain balance and prevent tripping. This action demonstrates proper use and helps maintain floor contact with all legs of the walker.

D. The client takes multiple steps while holding the walker: Taking multiple steps without first advancing the walker compromises balance and increases the risk of falling. The correct method involves moving the walker first, then taking one step at a time toward it.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Macrosomia: Post-term infants (≥42 weeks gestation) have prolonged exposure to intrauterine nutrients, increasing the risk of excessive fetal growth. Macrosomia is common and can lead to complications such as shoulder dystocia or birth trauma.
• Meconium aspiration syndrome: As gestation progresses beyond term, placental function may decline, increasing fetal stress. This can trigger passage of meconium in utero and aspiration during delivery, especially with late decelerations suggesting uteroplacental insufficiency.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Intraventricular hemorrhage: This condition is typically associated with preterm infants due to fragile cerebral vasculature. A post-term newborn is not at increased risk for IVH.
• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia: BPD is a chronic lung disease most often seen in premature infants requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy. It is not a common concern for post-term infants.