Which of the following is a common complication in neonates with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In neonates with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), hypoglycemia is a common complication due to inadequate glycogen stores and limited fat reserves. This condition can result in neurological impairment and seizures if not promptly addressed. Hypoglycemia screening and management are crucial in these neonates to prevent adverse outcomes. Option A, hyperglycemia, is less likely in neonates with IUGR as they have limited glycogen stores and are at higher risk for hypoglycemia. Option C, polycythemia, can occur in IUGR neonates as a compensatory mechanism to improve oxygen delivery, but it is not as common as hypoglycemia in this population. Option D, hydrocephalus, is not typically associated with IUGR but may result from other causes like congenital malformations or infections. Educationally, understanding the common complications of IUGR in neonates is essential for nurses working in pediatric settings. Recognizing and managing hypoglycemia promptly can prevent long-term neurological consequences. Nurses need to be knowledgeable about the unique challenges faced by IUGR neonates to provide optimal care and improve outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a neonate diagnosed with hypocalcemia, the primary treatment is calcium supplementation (Option A). Calcium is essential for various physiological functions, including neuromuscular function, cardiac conduction, and bone formation. Neonates are particularly vulnerable to hypocalcemia due to factors such as immature parathyroid function or inadequate intake. Calcium supplementation is crucial to raise serum calcium levels promptly and prevent complications like seizures or tetany. Phosphate supplementation (Option B) is not the primary treatment for hypocalcemia and can even worsen calcium levels by further lowering them. Vitamin D supplementation (Option C) is essential for calcium absorption but does not directly address low calcium levels in hypocalcemia. Magnesium supplementation (Option D) may be necessary if hypomagnesemia coexists but is not the primary treatment for hypocalcemia. In an educational context, understanding the primary treatment for hypocalcemia in neonates is vital for nursing professionals caring for this vulnerable population. It ensures timely and appropriate intervention to prevent adverse outcomes associated with hypocalcemia. Nurses must be knowledgeable about neonatal conditions and their management to provide safe and effective care to neonates with complex health needs.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of neonates born to mothers with diabetes, the primary concern is hypoglycemia. This is because when a mother has diabetes, the baby is exposed to higher levels of glucose in utero. As a result, the baby's pancreas produces more insulin to counteract the high glucose levels. After birth, when the umbilical cord is clamped, the baby is suddenly cut off from the maternal glucose supply, but the high insulin levels persist, leading to hypoglycemia. Option A, preterm birth, is not the primary concern in this scenario unless there are other complications present. Option C, increased risk of infections, while a concern in general for neonates born to diabetic mothers, is not the primary concern immediately after birth. Option D, respiratory distress syndrome, is more commonly associated with preterm birth rather than maternal diabetes. Educationally, understanding the impact of maternal diabetes on neonatal health is crucial for nurses caring for these infants. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia in neonates born to diabetic mothers is essential for prompt intervention to prevent long-term complications. Nurses must be vigilant in monitoring blood glucose levels and supporting these infants in the transition to independent glucose regulation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the case of a neonate diagnosed with severe meconium aspiration syndrome, the primary treatment is positive pressure ventilation (Option B). This intervention is crucial as it helps to support the baby's breathing and oxygenation when there is significant respiratory distress due to meconium aspiration. Endotracheal intubation (Option A) may be necessary in some cases to secure the airway, but positive pressure ventilation is the initial step to improve oxygenation and ventilation. Surfactant therapy (Option C) is not the primary treatment for meconium aspiration syndrome. Surfactant is typically used in conditions like respiratory distress syndrome where there is a deficiency of surfactant in the lungs. Antibiotic therapy (Option D) is not indicated as the primary treatment for meconium aspiration syndrome unless there is a concomitant infection present, which would need to be confirmed through appropriate diagnostic tests. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate interventions for neonates with respiratory distress is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers working in pediatric settings. This knowledge ensures timely and effective management of conditions like meconium aspiration syndrome, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In preterm neonates, the potential complication of early enteral feeding that is addressed in this question is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). NEC is a serious condition characterized by inflammation and necrosis of the intestinal mucosa, predominantly affecting premature infants. Early enteral feeding can increase the risk of NEC due to the immaturity of the gastrointestinal tract in preterm neonates, making it more vulnerable to inflammation and injury. Option A (Necrotizing enterocolitis) is the correct answer because NEC is a well-documented complication associated with early enteral feeding in preterm neonates. It is crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of this risk and closely monitor neonates for signs and symptoms of NEC when initiating enteral feeds. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because hyperglycemia (Option B), jaundice (Option C), and hyperkalemia (Option D) are not typically associated with early enteral feeding in preterm neonates. While these conditions can occur in neonates for various reasons, they are not directly linked to the timing of enteral feeding initiation in premature infants. Educationally, understanding the potential complications of early enteral feeding in preterm neonates is vital for nurses and healthcare providers working in neonatal care settings. It highlights the importance of implementing evidence-based practices and closely monitoring neonates to prevent and promptly manage complications like NEC. This knowledge can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of care in the neonatal population.