Before a newborn is discharged, the nurse performs a heel stick ...

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Before a newborn is discharged, the nurse performs a heel stick to obtain blood for testing. The newborn's mother asks why this is being done. The nurse points out that:
 
  a. Newborn screening tests are done to detect the presence of certain abnormal health conditions before symptoms appear, enabling early intervention.
  b. This test will determine whether her infant will need medication to prevent infection.
  c. This test will check for anemia, which would necessitate supplemental use of an iron-rich formula.
  d. These tests are used to diagnose certain genetic problems so that proper treatment can be started.

Question 2

When a father sees his baby for the first time, he is very concerned because the baby's head appears elongated. The nurse's best reply would be that the elongation is due to a(n):
 
  a. Collection of blood under the bones
  b. Collection of fluid in the tissues
  c. Overlapping of bones during birth
  d. Birth defect

[cloudre37]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The purpose of newborn blood testing is to screen for certain abnormal conditions so that specific diagnostic tests may be done and early interventions begun if necessary. These tests are not diagnostic of disease.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Neonates born head first and vaginally often have an elongated head, called molding, which usually resolves in a few days. Molding occurs when the skull bones override each other to allow the head to fit through the birth canal.

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Excellent

[ryhom]

TYSM