Assessment and Management of Newborn Complications Quizlet Related

Review Assessment and Management of Newborn Complications Quizlet related questions and content

The newborn is having occasional gasping respirations with a heart rate of 90 beats per minute. Skin color is cyanotic with poor muscle tone. Interpreting relevant clinical data in this scenario, what problems are possible? Select all that apply.

  • A. The newborn is hypothermic.
  • B. The newborn is full term.
  • C. The newborn is experiencing respiratory distress.
  • D. The newborn is anemic.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: The newborn is experiencing respiratory distress. Gasping respirations, low heart rate, cyanotic skin, and poor muscle tone are indicative of respiratory distress in a newborn. Gasping is an abnormal breathing pattern seen in severe respiratory distress. A low heart rate is a compensatory response to decreased oxygen levels. Cyanotic skin color indicates poor oxygenation. Poor muscle tone can be a sign of inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.

Explanation for other choices:
A: The newborn may be hypothermic due to poor temperature regulation, but the primary concern in this scenario is respiratory distress.
B: Being full term does not directly explain the newborn's clinical presentation, so it is not a likely cause.
D: Anemia could contribute to poor oxygen delivery, but the clinical presentation suggests a more acute issue related to respiratory distress.