25. A Caucasian, male neonate is delivered at 33 weeks' gestation due to premature, preterm rupture of membranes and a maternal fever. A nurse is performing an initial assessment of the neonate. The nurse should expect to find the presence of:
25. A Caucasian, male neonate is delivered at 33 weeks' gestation due to premature, preterm rupture of membranes and a maternal fever. A nurse is performing an initial assessment of the neonate. The nurse should expect to find the presence of:
Test-Taking Tip
There are two key points: a neonate who is male and 33 weeks' gestation. Eliminate the options that are not found in an infant who is preterm or an infant who is Caucasian. The preterm rupture and fever have nothing to do with the options and are, therefore, distracters.
Content Area: Maternity, Postpartum; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Health Promotion and Maintenance/Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
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Answer 1 is incorrect because scrotal rugae do not develop until after about 37 weeks of gestation. They would not be present at 33 weeks' gestation. Answer 2 is incorrect because mongolian spots are not commonly found in neonates who are Caucasian; however, they are frequently found in neonates who are darker skinned. Answer 3 is incorrect because desquamation is found when the vernix has absorbed and the skin begins to peel, usually indicative of a postmature neonate. Answer 4 is correct because vernix caseosa is very apparent in a preterm fetus at 33 weeks' gestation.
