In lieu of obtaining a scalp blood gas sample, what can the therapist do to conduct intrapartum assessment of the fetus?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of intrapartum assessment of the fetus, the correct answer is A) Fetal scalp stimulation. This technique involves applying pressure or rubbing the fetal scalp to elicit a response, such as acceleration of the fetal heart rate, indicating fetal well-being and oxygenation status. Option B) Umbilical cord blood sampling is typically done after birth to assess the newborn's blood gas values and is not a method for intrapartum assessment. Option C) Placental blood sampling is not a direct method of assessing the fetus's oxygenation status during labor. Option D) Biophysical profile is a prenatal ultrasound evaluation used to assess fetal well-being and is not typically used for intrapartum assessments. In an educational context, understanding the importance of intrapartum fetal assessment techniques is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for laboring women. Fetal scalp stimulation is a valuable tool to quickly assess fetal well-being and oxygenation status during labor, helping to guide clinical decision-making and interventions to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Delayed resorption of fetal lung fluid. Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a common respiratory condition in newborns characterized by rapid breathing due to the delayed clearance of fetal lung fluid after birth. This leads to fluid accumulation in the lungs, causing respiratory distress. Prematurity (Option A) is a common cause of respiratory distress in newborns, but it is not the most common cause of TTN. Meconium aspiration (Option B) occurs when a newborn inhales meconium-stained amniotic fluid, leading to respiratory issues different from TTN. Respiratory distress syndrome (Option D) is caused by insufficient surfactant production in premature infants, leading to lung collapse and is not directly related to delayed resorption of fetal lung fluid. In an educational context, understanding the etiology of TTN is crucial for nurses caring for newborns. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of TTN, as well as its common causes, can help nurses provide appropriate care and support for infants experiencing this transient respiratory condition. It also highlights the importance of early identification and intervention to ensure optimal outcomes for newborns with TTN.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main goal of enteral feeding in preterm neonates is to promote gut maturation and establish feeding tolerance. This is crucial because preterm neonates often have underdeveloped gastrointestinal systems and may struggle with feeding initially. Enteral feeding helps in the gradual adaptation and development of their digestive tract, allowing them to tolerate and absorb nutrients effectively. Option A, providing sufficient calories for growth, is an important aspect of enteral feeding but not the main goal in preterm neonates. Their primary focus is on establishing feeding tolerance rather than just calorie intake. Option C, preventing aspiration pneumonia, is also an important consideration during feeding in neonates but is not the primary goal of enteral feeding. While proper feeding techniques can help prevent aspiration, the main goal remains promoting gut maturation. Option D, managing electrolyte imbalances, is an important aspect of neonatal care but is not directly related to the main goal of enteral feeding in preterm neonates. Enteral feeding primarily aims to support gut development and feeding tolerance rather than managing electrolyte imbalances. Understanding the primary goal of enteral feeding in preterm neonates is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for these vulnerable patients. It ensures that the focus remains on promoting optimal feeding practices to support their growth and development effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) in newborns is a serious condition characterized by elevated pulmonary vascular resistance. The primary cause of PPHN is vasoconstriction of the pulmonary vasculature (Option C). In PPHN, the pulmonary blood vessels remain constricted, leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation and decreased blood flow to the lungs for oxygenation. This results in persistent hypoxemia, which can be life-threatening for the newborn. Option A (Pulmonary vasodilation) is incorrect because in PPHN, there is vasoconstriction rather than vasodilation of the pulmonary blood vessels. Option B (Impaired oxygenation) is a consequence of PPHN rather than a primary cause. Impaired oxygenation occurs due to the mismatch between ventilation and perfusion caused by the vasoconstriction. Option D (Increased pulmonary blood flow) is also incorrect as PPHN involves decreased blood flow to the lungs due to vasoconstriction. Educationally, understanding the pathophysiology of PPHN is crucial for nurses caring for newborns. Recognizing the primary cause of PPHN can guide appropriate interventions to improve oxygenation and support the newborn's respiratory function. Nurses need to monitor closely for signs of respiratory distress and provide timely interventions to manage PPHN effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In teaching parents about typical toddler eating patterns, it is crucial to include information about "food 'jags" as the correct answer. Food 'jags' refer to periods when a toddler fixates on a particular food or food group, eating it repeatedly before moving on to another food. This behavior is common in toddlers as they are exploring tastes and textures and asserting their independence. Option B, preference to eat alone, is not the most essential information to include when discussing typical toddler eating patterns. While some toddlers may prefer to eat alone due to developing independence, it is not as common or significant as food 'jags'. Option C, consistent table manners, while important to teach, is not directly related to typical toddler eating patterns. Toddlers are still learning and may not consistently exhibit table manners at this stage of development. Option D, an increase in appetite, is not a typical characteristic of toddler eating patterns. In fact, toddlers may be picky eaters or have erratic eating habits due to their changing growth and developmental needs. Educational Context: Understanding typical toddler eating patterns is crucial for parents to provide a supportive and healthy eating environment. By being aware of behaviors like food 'jags', parents can better navigate and support their child's eating habits during this developmental stage. Educating parents about these patterns can help reduce stress and frustration around mealtimes and promote a positive relationship with food for the child.