ATI Maternal Newborn Related

Review ATI Maternal Newborn related questions and content

What are signs of neonatal sepsis that a nurse should monitor for?

  • A. Tachypnea, poor feeding, and temperature instability
  • B. Increased alertness, reduced crying, and stable vitals
  • C. Lethargy, poor perfusion, and apnea
  • D. Hyperthermia, bradycardia, and cyanosis
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because lethargy, poor perfusion, and apnea are classic signs of neonatal sepsis. Lethargy indicates decreased activity and responsiveness, poor perfusion suggests inadequate blood circulation, and apnea is a serious respiratory issue. These signs indicate a systemic infection affecting multiple organs. Choices A, B, and D do not align with typical symptoms of neonatal sepsis. Tachypnea, poor feeding, and temperature instability (Choice A) are more general and can be seen in various conditions. Increased alertness, reduced crying, and stable vitals (Choice B) are not indicative of sepsis, as sepsis typically causes the opposite. Hyperthermia, bradycardia, and cyanosis (Choice D) can be present in sepsis, but they are not as specific or as common as the signs in Choice C.