The blood smear of infant with hemolytic disease of the newborn (erythroblastosis fetalis) typically shows the following EXCEPT

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding hemolytic disease of the newborn (erythroblastosis fetalis) is crucial. The correct answer, D) low white blood cell count, is the exception in this scenario. In hemolytic disease of the newborn, there is an increase in the destruction of red blood cells, leading to anemia. As a compensatory mechanism, the bone marrow produces more red blood cells, resulting in polychromasia (option A), an increased reticulocyte count (option B), and a marked increase in nucleated red blood cells (option C) on the blood smear. A low white blood cell count, as stated in option D, is not a typical finding in hemolytic disease of the newborn. White blood cells are primarily involved in the body's immune response and are not directly affected by the hemolysis of red blood cells in this condition. Recognizing these characteristic blood smear findings is essential for nurses caring for infants with hemolytic disease of the newborn to provide appropriate interventions and monitor the infant's response to treatment effectively. Educationally, this question helps reinforce the importance of understanding the pathophysiology of hemolytic disease of the newborn and the interpretation of blood smear results in pediatric nursing practice. By explaining why the correct answer is right and why the other options are incorrect, nurses can enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills, ultimately improving their ability to provide quality care to pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Omphalitis (infection of the umbilical stump) as a common skin and soft tissue manifestation of neonatal bacterial infections. Omphalitis is a serious infection that can occur in newborns due to bacterial contamination of the umbilical stump. It is important for pediatric nurses to be aware of this condition as it can lead to systemic infection if not promptly treated. Facial cellulitis (option A) is more commonly seen in older children and adults, usually due to bacterial skin infections. Scalp abscess (option B) is also more common in older children and is often associated with localized infections or trauma. Fasciitis (option C) is a deep soft tissue infection that is rare in neonates and typically presents differently than a superficial skin infection like omphalitis. Understanding these common skin and soft tissue manifestations of neonatal bacterial infections is crucial for pediatric nurses to provide timely and appropriate care to newborns. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of omphalitis can help prevent serious complications and ensure the well-being of the infant.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Decrease the risk of cerebral palsy in surviving infants. Administering magnesium sulfate antenatally before preterm delivery has been shown to reduce the risk of cerebral palsy in surviving infants. This is because magnesium sulfate has neuroprotective properties that help in reducing brain injury and neurological deficits in preterm infants. Option A) Reduce rates of necrotizing enterocolitis is incorrect as magnesium sulfate administration is not primarily aimed at reducing necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. Option C) Improve overall survival is not directly related to the administration of magnesium sulfate, as its main benefit lies in reducing the risk of cerebral palsy rather than overall survival. Option D) Decrease respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants is also incorrect, as magnesium sulfate does not have a significant impact on respiratory distress syndrome. In an educational context, it is crucial for pediatric nurses to understand the benefits and implications of antenatal magnesium sulfate administration in preterm deliveries. This knowledge is essential for providing evidence-based care to pregnant women at risk of preterm labor and in improving outcomes for preterm infants, particularly in reducing the risk of cerebral palsy. Understanding the rationale behind using magnesium sulfate can guide nursing practice and contribute to better patient outcomes in neonatal care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is B) depression. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is commonly associated with depression due to the debilitating nature of the condition, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and lack of interest in activities. Individuals with CFS often experience physical symptoms that can contribute to the development of depression. Option A) anxiety is not typically the primary psychiatric disorder associated with CFS. While individuals with CFS may experience anxiety due to the impact of their condition on their daily lives, depression is more prevalent. Option C) obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and option D) social phobia are not commonly associated with CFS. These disorders involve specific patterns of behavior and thought processes that are not typically linked to CFS. In an educational context, understanding the psychiatric comorbidities of CFS is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially pediatric nurses. By recognizing the common association of depression with CFS, nurses can provide holistic care that addresses both the physical and mental health needs of pediatric patients with CFS. This knowledge enables nurses to implement appropriate interventions and support systems to improve the overall well-being of their patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing and mental health, understanding the correlation between major depressive disorder (MDD) and comorbid disorders is crucial. The correct answer is B) anxiety disorders. This is because anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with MDD in pediatric patients. The presence of one often increases the risk of developing the other, and they can exacerbate each other's symptoms. Option A) dysthymic disorder is a chronic form of depression but is not the most likely disorder associated with MDD in this scenario. Substance abuse (Option C) is a serious issue, but anxiety disorders have a higher association with MDD in pediatric patients. Disruptive behavior disorders (Option D) can also coexist with MDD, but anxiety disorders have a stronger correlation. Educationally, understanding these associations is vital for pediatric nurses to provide holistic care. By recognizing the common comorbidities of MDD, nurses can assess and intervene effectively to support the mental health needs of young patients. This knowledge helps in early identification, intervention, and collaboration with mental health professionals to ensure comprehensive care for pediatric patients with MDD and comorbid disorders.