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 lack the ability to regulate their own temperatures.
The heat in the incubator rapidly dries the sweat of preterm newborns.
Preterm newborns have a smaller body surface area than normal newborns.
The added brown fat layer in a preterm newborn reduces his ability to generate heat.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Preterm newborns have underdeveloped mechanisms for thermoregulation, making it difficult for them to maintain stable body temperatures without external assistance.
Choice B rationale
Preterm newborns do not sweat significantly because their sweat glands are not fully developed; thus, this rationale is incorrect.
Choice C rationale
Preterm newborns actually have a larger body surface area relative to their weight, contributing to their difficulty in maintaining body temperature.
Choice D rationale
Preterm newborns have insufficient brown fat, not an excess, which impairs their ability to generate heat effectively.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The absence of creases on the plantar surface is typical of a preterm infant, not a term infant. Term infants usually have some creases.
Choice B rationale
Abundant lanugo is more common in preterm infants, while term infants may have some but not extensive lanugo.
Choice C rationale
A flexed position at rest is expected in a term neonate, as it indicates good muscle tone and neuromuscular development.
Choice D rationale
The pinna of the ear remaining folded is more indicative of a preterm infant, as term infants typically have fully formed and firmer ear cartilage.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Keeping the diaper loose in the front helps avoid pressure on the circumcision site, promoting healing and reducing discomfort for the infant.
Choice B rationale
A yellow crust or exudate forming on the circumcision site is a normal part of the healing process and should not be a cause for alarm. It is not an indication to call the doctor immediately unless other signs of infection or complications are present.
Choice C rationale
Notifying the healthcare provider in the case of significant bleeding is crucial. Excessive bleeding can indicate a complication that requires prompt medical attention to ensure the infant's safety and proper healing.
Choice D rationale
Applying petroleum jelly with each diaper change helps to protect the circumcision site from sticking to the diaper, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.