RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam Related

Review RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a newborn who was born at 26 weeks of gestation using the New Ballard Score. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

  • A. Minimal arm recoil
  • B. Popliteal angle of 90°
  • C. Creases over the entire foot sole
  • D. Raised areolas with 3 to 4 mm buds
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Minimal arm recoil. In premature newborns, the lack of muscle tone results in minimal arm recoil, which is a characteristic finding in the New Ballard Score for assessing gestational age. This is due to the immaturity of the neuromuscular system in premature infants. Choice B, popliteal angle of 90°, is incorrect as flexion of the hips and knees is more common in preterm infants. Choice C, creases over the entire foot sole, is incorrect as full development of foot sole creases is seen in term infants. Choice D, raised areolas with 3 to 4 mm buds, is incorrect as these are signs of breast development and are not specific to gestational age assessment.