HESI Focus on Maternity Exam Related

Review HESI Focus on Maternity Exam related questions and content

What is the primary rationale for thoroughly drying the infant immediately after birth?

  • A. Stimulates crying and lung expansion.
  • B. Removes maternal blood from the skin surface.
  • C. Reduces heat loss from evaporation.
  • D. Increases blood supply to the hands and feet.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary rationale for thoroughly drying the infant immediately after birth is to reduce heat loss from evaporation. This helps maintain the infant's body temperature and prevent hypothermia. Choice A (Stimulates crying and lung expansion) is incorrect because drying the infant is not primarily done to stimulate crying but rather to prevent heat loss. Choice B (Removes maternal blood from the skin surface) is incorrect as the main reason is to prevent heat loss, not to remove maternal blood. Choice D (Increases blood supply to the hands and feet) is also incorrect as drying the infant is not intended to increase blood supply but rather to regulate body temperature.