Which assessment findings may cause the nurse to suspect a brachial plexus injury?
The newborn has hypotonia
The newborn does not demonstrate the Moro reflex
The newborn cries continually
The newborn has tremors
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
The newborn has hypotonia. This is not a specific sign of brachial plexus injury, as hypotonia can have many other causes, such as genetic disorders, infections, or brain damage.
Hypotonia is a general term for low muscle tone or weakness, which can affect the whole body or specific parts.
Choice B reason:
The newborn does not demonstrate the Moro reflex. This is a sign of brachial plexus injury, especially if it affects only one arm. The Moro reflex is a startle response that causes the baby to throw out the arms and legs, then curl them in when startled. A brachial plexus injury can impair the nerve function in the shoulder, arm, or hand, leading to decreased movement or sensation in the upper extremity. If the baby does not show the Moro reflex on one side, it may indicate damage to the upper brachial plexus nerves (C5-C7), also known as Erb's palsy.
Choice C reason:
The newborn cries continually. This is not a specific sign of brachial plexus injury, as crying can have many other causes, such as hunger, discomfort, or colic. Crying is a normal way for babies to communicate their needs and feelings. Crying does not necessarily indicate pain from a brachial plexus injury, as infants' nerves behave differently from adults' and they may not experience much pain from this condition.
Choice D reason:
The newborn has tremors. This is not a specific sign of brachial plexus injury, as tremors can have many other causes, such as cold temperature, low blood sugar, or withdrawal from maternal medications. Tremors are involuntary movements of the muscles that can affect the whole body or specific parts. Tremors do not necessarily indicate nerve damage from a brachial plexus injury, as this condition usually causes weakness or paralysis of the affected muscles.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Heat facilitates the drainage of mucus for a premature newborn. This is incorrect because heat does not affect mucus drainage. Mucus drainage is more related to suctioning and hydration.
Choice B reason:
The newborn has a small body surface for his weight. This is incorrect because a small body surface area for weight would indicate a large newborn, not a premature one. A large newborn would have less risk of heat loss than a small one.
Choice C reason:
The newborn's temperature control mechanism is immature. This is correct because premature newborns have immature thermoregulation and are prone to hypothermia. Placing the newborn in an incubator helps maintain a stable temperature and prevent further complications.
Choice D reason:
Heat increases the flow of oxygen to the newborn's extremities. This is incorrect because heat does not directly affect oxygen delivery. Oxygen delivery is more related to ventilation, perfusion, and hemoglobin levels. The question is about a premature newborn who has signs of respiratory distress, such as nasal flaring, intercostal retractions, expiratory grunting, and mild cyanosis. These signs indicate that the newborn is having difficulty breathing and may have a condition such as respiratory distress syndrome, transient tachypnea of the newborn, or meconium aspiration syndrome. The nurse should place the newborn in an incubator to provide warmth and prevent heat loss, which can worsen respiratory distress. The nurse should also monitor the newborn's vital signs, oxygen saturation, blood gases, chest x-ray, and neonatal abstinence scoring system if indicated. The nurse should be prepared to administer oxygen, surfactant, or mechanical ventilation as ordered.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Moro is a newborn reflex that occurs when the baby is startled by a loud sound or movement. The baby will cry, throw back his or her head, and then pull his or her limbs into the body. This reflex lasts until the baby is about 2 months old.
Choice B reason:
Rooting is a newborn reflex that starts when the corner of the baby's mouth is stroked or touched. The baby will turn his or her head and open his or her mouth to follow and root in the direction of the stroking. This helps the baby find the breast or bottle to start feeding. This reflex lasts about 4 months.
Choice C reason:
Gag is a newborn reflex that prevents the baby from choking on foreign objects. The baby will cough, gag or spit out anything that touches the back of the throat or the roof of the mouth. This reflex is present throughout life.
Choice D reason:
Running is not a newborn reflex. It is a voluntary movement that develops later in childhood. Choice E reason:
Babinski is a newborn reflex that occurs when the sole of the foot is stroked from heel to toe. The baby will fan out and curl up the toes and twist the foot inward. This reflex lasts until the baby is about 12 months old.
Choice F reason:
Stepping is a newborn reflex that occurs when the baby is held upright with his or her feet touching a solid surface. The baby will appear to take steps or dance. This reflex lasts about 2 months.
Choice G reason:
The crawling reflex is a developmental milestone observed in infants around 6-8 months of age. It involves the baby moving on their hands and knees, often starting with a belly-crawling motion. Unlike newborn reflexes, this skill is learned and requires muscle coordination and strength.
Choice H reason:
Standing with support is a developmental milestone typically achieved by infants around 9-12 months. In this skill, the baby pulls themselves up to a standing position while holding onto furniture or a caregiver’s hands. It is a learned behavior reflecting increased muscle strength and balance, distinct from newborn reflexes.
Choice I reason:
The pincer grasp is a fine motor skill that usually develops between 8-12 months. It involves the baby using the thumb and index finger to pick up small objects. This ability is not a reflex but a learned skill that demonstrates improved hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
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