Genitourinary Review of Systems Related

Review Genitourinary Review of Systems related questions and content

When assessing a newborn infant's genitalia, the nurse notices that the genitalia are somewhat engorged. The labia majora are swollen, the clitoris looks large, and the hymen is thick. The vaginal opening is difficult to visualize. The infant's mother states that she is worried about the labia being swollen. The nurse should reply:

  • A. This is a normal finding in newborns and should resolve within a few weeks.
  • B. This finding could indicate an abnormality and may need to be evaluated by a physician.
  • C. We will need to have estrogen levels evaluated to ensure that they are within normal limits.
  • D. We will need to keep close watch over the next few days to see if the genitalia decrease in size.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Neonatal genital engorgement is a common finding due to maternal hormones.
Step 2: Maternal hormones can cause swelling of the labia majora, clitoris, and thickening of the hymen.
Step 3: This physiological phenomenon typically resolves within a few weeks post-birth.
Step 4: The nurse should reassure the mother that this is a normal finding in newborns.
Summary: Choice A is correct because it aligns with the normal physiological process, while the other options suggest unnecessary interventions or monitoring that are not indicated in this situation.