Midwifery Exam Questions Related

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Which one of the following clinical features indicates neonatal intracranial injury?

  • A. An oedematous swelling on the newborn’s scalp that resolves in 48 hours
  • B. Notable bleeding between the epicranial aponeurosis & the periosteum
  • C. Evidence of excessive molding or abnormal stretching of the fetal head
  • D. Peripheral cyanosis as noted by the midwife on the neonate’s peripheries
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for choice C:

1. Excessive molding or abnormal stretching of the fetal head can indicate neonatal intracranial injury due to the trauma during birth.
2. This feature suggests possible compression or trauma to the baby's head during delivery.
3. It may lead to intracranial hemorrhage or other injuries, requiring close monitoring and medical intervention.

Summary of other choices:
A. An oedematous swelling resolving in 48 hours is likely a normal finding (cephalohematoma) and not specific to intracranial injury.
B. Notable bleeding between the epicranial aponeurosis & periosteum may indicate cephalohematoma or caput succedaneum, not necessarily intracranial injury.
D. Peripheral cyanosis is related to oxygenation and circulation, not specific to intracranial injury.