Physiological Integrity NCLEX RN Related

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The nurse is performing an assessment on a postterm infant. Which physical characteristic should the nurse expect to observe in this infant?

  • A. Peeling of the skin
  • B. Smooth soles without creases
  • C. Lanugo covering the entire body
  • D. Vernix that covers the body in a thick layer
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The postterm infant (born after the 42nd week of gestation) exhibits dry, peeling, cracked, almost leather-like skin over the body, which is called desquamation. The preterm infant (born between 24 and 37 weeks of gestation) exhibits smooth soles without creases, lanugo covering the entire body, and thick vernix covering the body.