The parents of a 30-week preterm infant ask the nurse why the baby can get cold so easily. The nurse explains:
Preterm neonates shiver to retain heat.
Preterm neonates lie in a fetal position.
Preterm neonates’ blood vessels are deeper under the surface of their skin.
Preterm neonates have minimal body fat to retain body heat.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Preterm neonates lack developed mechanisms to shiver for thermogenesis, relying instead on non-shivering thermogenesis primarily through brown fat metabolism, which is underdeveloped in preterm infants.
Choice B rationale
The fetal position does not significantly affect heat retention in preterm neonates, as their thermoregulatory mechanisms depend on adequate fat stores and skin coverage.
Choice C rationale
Blood vessels in preterm neonates are closer to the skin's surface, increasing heat loss due to greater exposure and lack of insulating subcutaneous fat.
Choice D rationale
Preterm neonates have minimal body fat, impeding insulation and heat retention, leading to rapid heat loss, necessitating external warming measures like incubators or radiant warmers.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Denying parents the ability to hold their infant can interfere with bonding. Physiologically stable infants on oxygen benefit from being held, as it supports emotional well-being and parent-infant attachment without compromising oxygen delivery.
Choice B rationale
Holding a physiologically stable infant during gavage feeding fosters bonding, reduces parental anxiety, and stabilizes the infant's physiological parameters, as tactile stimulation aids neurodevelopment without causing stress to the infant's cardiorespiratory system.
Choice C rationale
Handholding alone is insufficient to support bonding and emotional connection. Physiologically stable infants benefit from full body contact during feeding to promote warmth, comfort, and the release of calming hormones like oxytocin.
Choice D rationale
Physiologically stable infants do not experience increased stress during feeding when held. Holding provides comfort and reduces stress, improving the feeding experience and supporting parent-infant bonding and attachment.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing family support is crucial as preterm birth can cause significant emotional distress. Education and involvement aid understanding of interventions and foster a supportive environment for both the neonate and family.
Choice B rationale
Strict handwashing and sterile technique prevent infection in preterm neonates, whose immature immune systems make them highly susceptible to sepsis, a leading cause of morbidity in NICUs.
Choice C rationale
Creating a womb-like state through dim lighting, limited noise, and careful positioning supports neurodevelopment and mimics the intrauterine environment, promoting growth and stability.
Choice D rationale
Frequent diaper changes may disturb thermoregulation and disrupt the neonate's limited energy reserves, as preterm infants require an environment that minimizes stress and conserves energy.
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