The nurse is aware that a newborn with a mother who has diabetes is at risk for what complication?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and nursing care of the newborn, understanding the risk factors associated with maternal diabetes is crucial for providing safe and effective care. In this scenario, the correct answer is C) hypoglycemia. Infants born to mothers with diabetes are at risk for hypoglycemia due to the abrupt cessation of the maternal glucose supply at birth. Hypoglycemia in newborns can lead to significant complications such as seizures, developmental delays, and long-term neurological issues if not promptly addressed. Therefore, nurses must closely monitor blood glucose levels in these newborns and be prepared to intervene quickly if hypoglycemia occurs. Regarding the incorrect options: A) Anemia is not a direct complication associated with maternal diabetes in newborns. B) Microcephaly is a condition characterized by a small head size and is not typically linked to maternal diabetes. D) Small for gestational age (SGA) refers to infants who are below the 10th percentile in weight for their gestational age, which can be influenced by various factors but is not directly caused by maternal diabetes. By understanding these specific risks and complications, nurses can provide targeted care and interventions to ensure the best outcomes for newborns of mothers with diabetes. This knowledge is essential for pharmacology students and practicing nurses to deliver safe and effective care in this specialized area of neonatal nursing.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) an infant between 1 and 4 months of age. This age group is at the greatest risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) due to various factors. Infants between 1 and 4 months have not yet developed the full ability to regulate their breathing and arousal from sleep, which are crucial in preventing SIDS. Additionally, this age range is when the risk of SIDS is highest according to research and statistics. Option B) a post-date neonate is not the correct answer because while being post-date can pose certain risks to the newborn, it is not specifically linked to an increased risk of SIDS. Option C) a baby 6 to 12 months of age is also incorrect as the risk of SIDS decreases after the age of 6 months when infants have better developed physiological mechanisms to protect themselves during sleep. Option D) a baby 4 to 6 months of age is not the greatest risk group, although infants in this age range are still susceptible to SIDS. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses caring for newborns and their families to understand the risk factors associated with SIDS to provide appropriate education and support. By recognizing that infants between 1 and 4 months are at the highest risk, nurses can tailor their education efforts to focus on safe sleep practices, such as placing the baby on their back to sleep, using a firm sleep surface, and keeping soft bedding and toys out of the sleep area. This knowledge empowers nurses to effectively educate parents and caregivers on reducing the risk of SIDS and promoting infant safety.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) a digital rectal thermometer. When taking a newborn's temperature, it is essential to use a reliable and accurate method. A digital rectal thermometer is the most accurate for infants under three months old because it provides a precise reading of the core body temperature. Option A) a tympanic thermometer may not be as accurate in newborns due to their small ear canals and difficulty in obtaining a proper seal for an accurate reading. Option B) a glass rectal thermometer (mercury) is not recommended due to the risk of exposure to mercury, which is toxic. Option C) a digital axillary thermometer is less accurate in newborns compared to rectal thermometers because axillary temperatures can be influenced by external factors. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to provide evidence-based information to parents regarding newborn care, including temperature measurement. By explaining the rationale behind using a digital rectal thermometer for accurate temperature assessment in newborns, nurses empower parents to make informed decisions and ensure the well-being of their child.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for an infant with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), it is crucial for nurses to recognize the characteristic symptoms to provide appropriate care. Option C, small eyes, thin upper lip, and smooth skin between the nose and upper lip, is the correct choice. This combination of features, known as the "triad of FAS," is indicative of prenatal alcohol exposure. Options A, B, and D describe features that are not typically associated with FAS. Widely spaced nipples and a webbed neck (Option A) are not specific to FAS. Option B describes features more commonly seen in Down syndrome than FAS. Option D, an acyanotic infant with a murmur, is not a typical presentation of FAS. Educationally, it is vital for nurses to be able to differentiate between the distinctive physical characteristics of various conditions, especially when caring for vulnerable populations like newborns with FAS. Understanding these key signs can lead to early identification, appropriate interventions, and improved outcomes for infants affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In explaining surfactant therapy to parents of a premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), the nurse should choose option B) Surfactant improves the ability of your infant’s lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. This answer is correct because artificial surfactant helps reduce surface tension in the lungs, preventing alveolar collapse and improving gas exchange, which is crucial for the infant's respiratory function. Option A is incorrect because surfactant therapy is not related to sedation requirements. Option C is incorrect because surfactant is not used to reduce tachycardia episodes. Option D is incorrect because surfactant is not administered to fight respiratory tract infections but rather to improve lung function in RDS. Educationally, it is important for parents to understand the rationale behind the treatment their infant is receiving. By explaining how surfactant works to improve lung function, parents can better comprehend the importance of this therapy in helping their infant breathe more effectively and potentially improve outcomes in RDS cases. This information empowers parents to be more actively involved in their infant's care and advocate for appropriate treatment.