While giving care to a newborn, the nurse observes a depressed ...

[stephzh]

While giving care to a newborn, the nurse observes a depressed anterior fontanelle. The nurse reports this to the health care provider immediately because it can be a sign of:
 
  a. Infection
  b. Dehydration
  c. Shock
  d. Brain hemorrhage

Question 2

The nurse recognizes that unequal femoral pulses in a newborn usually indicates:
 
  a. Ventral-septal defect
  b. Congenital hip dislocation
  c. Patent ductus arteriosus
  d. Coarctation of the aorta

[bpool94]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
When the infant is quiet, the anterior fontanelle should be level with the cranial bones. A depressed fontanelle is often a late sign of dehydration.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Femoral pulses should be taken at the same time. Diminished or unequal pulses may indicate a heart defect, specifically coarctation of the aorta.