ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Latest Update Related

Review ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Latest Update related questions and content

Which explanation is most appropriate when describing physiological jaundice to the parents of a newborn?

  • A. The baby has a minor incompatibility of the blood.
  • B. The baby is breaking down the extra red blood cells that were present at birth.
  • C. The baby is getting too much breast milk, but this is not dangerous.
  • D. The baby may have gotten exposed to hepatitis B during the delivery.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The baby is breaking down the extra red blood cells that were present at birth. Physiological jaundice in newborns occurs due to the breakdown of excess red blood cells, leading to an increase in bilirubin levels. This is a normal process as the baby's liver is still maturing.

Choice A is incorrect because minor blood incompatibility usually leads to a condition known as hemolytic disease of the newborn, not physiological jaundice. Choice C is incorrect as breast milk does not cause physiological jaundice. Choice D is incorrect because hepatitis B exposure does not directly cause physiological jaundice in newborns.