The following factors pose a risk for poor academic performance of premature infants EXCEPT

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate does not pose a risk for poor academic performance of premature infants. Premature infants are at high risk for academic challenges due to their vulnerable and underdeveloped systems. Factors such as extremely low birth weight (option A) below 750g can lead to long-term health issues affecting academic performance. Periventricular leukomalacia (option B) is a brain injury common in premature infants that can result in cognitive and developmental delays impacting academic abilities. Posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (option D) is a complication that can arise from bleeding in the brain, potentially causing neurological impairments affecting academic performance. Antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate (option C) is actually used as a neuroprotective agent in preterm labor to prevent cerebral palsy and other brain injuries. Therefore, it does not contribute to poor academic performance in premature infants. In an educational context, understanding these risk factors is crucial for pediatric nurses caring for premature infants. It enables them to provide appropriate interventions, support, and educational resources to promote the academic success of these vulnerable patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the effects of methylxanthines on broncho-pulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is crucial for safe and effective patient care. Methylxanthines like caffeine and theophylline are commonly used in neonates with BPD to improve respiratory function. The correct answer, option D, states that methylxanthines do not increase pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). This is accurate because methylxanthines actually have a vasodilatory effect on the pulmonary vasculature, reducing PVR and improving oxygenation. Option A, increasing respiratory drive, is a known effect of methylxanthines. They stimulate the respiratory center in the brain, leading to increased respiratory effort. Option B, decreasing apnea, is another recognized effect as methylxanthines help in reducing the frequency of apneic episodes in infants with BPD. Option C, improving diaphragmatic contractility, is an incorrect statement. Methylxanthines primarily work by stimulating the central nervous system and respiratory centers rather than directly affecting diaphragmatic contractility. Educationally, this question highlights the pharmacological effects of methylxanthines in the treatment of BPD. It reinforces the importance of understanding how medications impact different physiological processes in pediatric patients. This knowledge is essential for nurses to monitor for both therapeutic effects and potential adverse reactions when caring for infants with respiratory conditions like BPD.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding risk factors for significant jaundice in newborns is crucial for early identification and management. In this question, the correct answer is B) male gender. Male gender is not a protective factor for jaundice; in fact, male newborns have a slightly increased risk compared to females. This is due to factors such as increased red blood cell mass and higher rates of bruising during birth in males. A) Gestational age ≥41 weeks is associated with decreased risk as these babies have more fully developed liver function to process bilirubin. C) Exclusive bottle-feeding is a risk factor for jaundice as breastfed babies are less likely to develop significant jaundice due to the composition of breast milk aiding in the excretion of bilirubin. D) Discharge from the hospital after 72 hours is associated with decreased risk as it allows for monitoring of jaundice development and timely interventions if needed. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of recognizing risk factors for jaundice in newborns to provide appropriate care and interventions. Understanding these factors can help nurses in assessing, monitoring, and managing jaundice effectively in the pediatric population.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this question regarding abnormally short cords, the correct answer is A) Fetal hypotonia. This is because an abnormally short cord is primarily associated with decreased fetal movement and positioning rather than with fetal hypotonia. An abnormally short cord can lead to complications during labor and delivery due to limitations in fetal movement and positioning caused by the shortened cord. Option B) Wrapping around fetal parts can be a potential consequence of an abnormally short cord, as the limited length may increase the likelihood of the cord wrapping around the fetus, potentially leading to cord compression and compromising fetal well-being. Option C) Uterine constraint is also a possible consequence of an abnormally short cord, as the reduced length may restrict fetal movement within the uterus, which can impact the progress of labor and delivery. Option D) Oligohydramnios is not directly associated with abnormally short cords. Oligohydramnios refers to a deficiency of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus and is typically caused by issues such as fetal renal abnormalities or post-term pregnancy, rather than being directly related to the length of the umbilical cord. In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the implications of an abnormally short cord is crucial for providing safe and effective care to neonates and infants. Nurses must be knowledgeable about potential complications related to cord length and how to monitor for signs of fetal distress during labor and delivery. This knowledge helps nurses intervene promptly to ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the newborn.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Intrapartum antibiotics are administered to pregnant women to reduce the risk of transmitting Group B Streptococcus (GBS) to their newborns during labor. The correct answer, option D, "Reduce the rates of late-onset GBS disease," is accurate because intrapartum antibiotics have been shown to decrease the occurrence of late-onset GBS disease in newborns. This is a critical benefit as late-onset GBS disease can lead to serious complications in infants. Option A, "Reduce vertical transmission of GBS," is incorrect because intrapartum antibiotics are primarily aimed at reducing horizontal transmission during labor rather than vertical transmission from mother to fetus during pregnancy. Option B, "Lessen neonatal morbidity after preterm rupture of membranes," is incorrect as intrapartum antibiotics are not specifically indicated for this purpose but rather to prevent GBS transmission. Option C, "Prevent perinatal transmission of GBS," is also incorrect as the primary goal of intrapartum antibiotics is to prevent neonatal GBS infection during labor and delivery rather than perinatal transmission. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the use of intrapartum antibiotics in preventing neonatal GBS infection is crucial for pediatric nurses. It highlights the importance of timely administration of antibiotics to reduce the risk of late-onset GBS disease in newborns, emphasizing the need for evidence-based practice to enhance maternal and neonatal outcomes. Nurses need to be knowledgeable about the indications, benefits, and potential outcomes of intrapartum antibiotic therapy to provide safe and effective care to mothers and newborns during labor and delivery.