Why is the Dubowitz/Ballard assessment tool used on newborns following delivery?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The Dubowitz/Ballard assessment tool is used to determine the neuromuscular and physical maturity of the newborn. This tool assesses various physical and neuromuscular characteristics to estimate the gestational age of the infant accurately. By evaluating factors such as skin texture, lanugo, ear formation, and posture, healthcare providers can assess the infant's developmental stage. This assessment helps in determining if the infant is born prematurely or post-term, guiding appropriate care and interventions. The other choices are incorrect because the tool is not primarily used for those purposes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because larger labia minora relative to labia majora is a characteristic of preterm babies due to incomplete development. Labia minora being larger is a sign of immaturity in female infants. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because plantar creases covering two-thirds of the foot, mostly absent lanugo, and ears with instant recoil are normal characteristics seen in full-term newborns. These features are signs of maturity and development, not indicators of prematurity.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Cesarean deliveries do not allow for thoracic squeeze of fluid. During vaginal delivery, the infant's thorax undergoes a squeezing motion which helps to expel the amniotic fluid from the lungs, reducing the risk of respiratory issues. In contrast, infants delivered via cesarean section do not experience this thoracic squeeze, potentially leading to a higher risk of respiratory problems. A is incorrect because infants delivered via cesarean section may actually have higher risks of transitional problems due to the lack of thoracic squeeze. B is incorrect as vaginal deliveries facilitate the natural process of clearing lung fluid. D is incorrect as vaginal deliveries are the preferred method for term infants when possible, as they provide various benefits for both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Heart rate of 180 bpm. A high heart rate in a newborn is concerning as it could indicate distress or a medical condition. A heart rate of 180 bpm is significantly above the normal range for a newborn (120-160 bpm), requiring immediate attention to assess and address the underlying cause, such as infection or cardiac issues. A: Capillary refill time of 3 seconds is within the normal range (less than 3 seconds is normal). C: Respiratory rate of 65 breaths per minute is slightly elevated but not as critical as a high heart rate. D: Apgar score of 8 at 5 minutes is a good score, indicating the baby is in overall good condition, but it does not address the immediate concern of a high heart rate.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Clotting problems can occur in infants because they don't receive food right away. This is the best response as it explains the importance of the shot in preventing clotting issues due to delayed feeding. Infants are at risk of developing clotting problems since they don't receive food immediately after birth. Incorrect choices: A: Incorrect because the shot is not primarily aimed at preventing eye infections. B: Incorrect because the umbilical cord is not the main concern for the shot. C: Incorrect because hospital policy is not the reason for administering the shot. In summary, choice D is correct as it addresses a critical issue related to infant health, while the other choices do not focus on the primary reason for the shot administration.