What is the most critical physiologic change required of newborns at birth?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Transition from fetal to neonatal breathing. The onset of breathing is the most immediate and critical physiologic change required for the transition to extrauterine life. Factors that interfere with this normal transition increase fetal asphyxia, which is a condition of hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and acidosis. While body temperature maintenance, stabilization of fluid and electrolytes, and closure of fetal shunts in the heart are crucial changes in the transition to extrauterine life, breathing and the exchange of oxygen for carbon dioxide must take precedence as they are essential for newborn survival.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The American Academy of Pediatrics advocates for exclusive breastfeeding until 1 year of age as the best form of infant nutrition. Breastfeeding for the first year of life provides optimal nutrition and benefits for the infant. Exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age is not in line with the AAP's recommendation for a full year. While commercially prepared infant formula is an alternative if breastfeeding is not possible, it is not the preferred choice according to AAP guidelines. The recommendation for commercial infant formula until 1 year of age is not in line with the AAP's stance on the benefits of extended breastfeeding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative nursing care for an infant with hydrocephalus who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement includes monitoring closely for signs of infection, as infection is the greatest hazard in the postoperative period. Signs of cerebrospinal fluid infection to watch for include elevated temperature, poor feeding, vomiting, decreased responsiveness, and seizure activity. The child should be placed with the operative side of the head up to reduce pressure on the valve. The shunt reservoir should not be pumped to maintain patency, as this can disrupt its function. Maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt is contraindicated as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure and compromise the shunt's effectiveness.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Human milk is the preferred food for infants, including preterm infants. It contains essential ingredients necessary for the infant's growth and development. The mother should pump her breasts to provide milk for the infant if the child is receiving enteral feedings. Once the infant can coordinate breathing, sucking, and swallowing, breastfeeding directly is encouraged. Studies have shown that preterm infants fed fortified human milk have better outcomes compared to those fed commercial infant formulas. Commercial infant formulas may not fully meet the unique nutritional needs of preterm infants, leading to potential longer hospital stays. Therefore, human milk is the best choice for feeding premature infants.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Airway obstruction. When planning nursing care for an infant with Meconium aspiration syndrome, a primary consideration for complications is the potential of airway obstruction. After the passage of meconium into the amniotic fluid, the infant may inhale or swallow the fluid, leading to meconium aspiration into the lower airways and causing a partial airway obstruction. This can result in respiratory distress and hypoxemia. Hypoglycemia (choice A) is a metabolic condition unrelated to meconium aspiration. Bowel obstruction (choice B) with meconium may indicate other conditions like cystic fibrosis or Hirschsprung disease, not directly related to meconium aspiration syndrome. Carbon dioxide retention (choice D) is not a primary consideration in meconium aspiration syndrome; instead, the focus is on addressing the airway obstruction and potential respiratory compromise.