Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam Practice Questions Related

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Which statement best describes the clinical manifestations of the preterm newborn?

  • A. Head is proportionately small in relation to the body.
  • B. Sucking reflex is absent, weak, or ineffectual.
  • C. Thermostability is well established.
  • D. Extremities remain in attitude of flexion.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The statement that best describes the clinical manifestations of the preterm newborn is that the extremities remain in an attitude of flexion. This characteristic is known as the "fetal position" and is commonly observed in preterm infants due to their premature musculoskeletal development. The flexed position of the extremities is a result of the baby's position in the uterus and is a normal finding for preterm newborns. Other clinical manifestations of preterm newborns may include a disproportionately large head in relation to the body, an immature or weak sucking reflex, and decreased thermostability due to their underdeveloped thermoregulatory systems.