RN Nursing Care of Children 2019 With NGN Related

Review RN Nursing Care of Children 2019 With NGN related questions and content

Why are neonates predisposed to problems with thermoregulation?

  • A. Renal function is not fully developed.
  • B. Flexed posture favors heat loss.
  • C. A large body surface area favors heat loss to the environment.
  • D. A thick layer of subcutaneous fat provides excellent insulation.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Neonates have a large surface area relative to their weight, which makes them prone to heat loss to the environment, leading to thermoregulation issues. The underdeveloped kidney affecting urine concentration (Choice A) is unrelated to the thermal regulation process. While a flexed posture can help retain heat (Choice B), it does not outweigh the impact of the large body surface area in neonates. Although subcutaneous fat (Choice D) provides insulation, in neonates, the large body surface area is more significant in contributing to heat loss than the fat's insulating properties.