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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Constructing a model airplane may require smaller parts and more intricate work, not ideal for a 4-year-old child.
Choice B rationale
Putting together a large-piece puzzle is suitable for fine motor skills development and can be done while in isolation.
Choice C rationale
Playing in the hallway would expose the child to other areas and people, defeating the purpose of airborne precautions.
Choice D rationale
Watching a video game in the playroom is not feasible as it would require leaving the isolation area.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While knowing the adverse effects of medication is important, understanding why the child is taking the medication is crucial for ensuring adherence and proper administration.
Choice B rationale
Stopping medication when the child feels better can lead to incomplete treatment and antibiotic resistance. This is incorrect advice to give to parents.
Choice C rationale
Knowing the reason for taking the medication ensures that parents understand its importance, which promotes adherence to the prescribed regimen.
Choice D rationale
Using a kitchen spoon to administer medication can lead to inaccurate dosing. A proper measuring device, such as an oral syringe, should be used.