Preterm Infant Considerations Flashcard
Rationale
D. Rationale: The 3-lead ECG is the most reliable method to determine the newborn’s heart rate.
Question
Which of the following is the most reliable way of measuring the heart rate of a preterm newborn?
a. Auscultation
b. Pulse oximetry
c. Palpation of pulses
d. 3-lead ECG
Answer
d. 3-lead ECG
Rationale
C. Rationale: The neonatal resuscitation program recommends an endotracheal tube with an internal diameter of either 2.5 or 3.0 mm for intubating a preterm newborn. There are 2.0 mm internal diameter endotracheal tubes available, but they are rarely used and are not readily available.
Question
You are preparing for a high-risk preterm delivery. The endotracheal tube you should have on hand for potential intubation of the patient should have an internal diameter of:
a. 1.0 mm
b. 2.0 mm
c. 3.0 mm
d. 4.0 mm
Answer
c. 3.0 mm
Rationale
C. Rationale: Polyethylene wrap, also known as Saran wrap, is effective and recommended to maintain the preterm newborn’s temperature within the normal range. These types of plastic wrap prevent postnatal evaporative heat loss. Dry towels can be used over the polyethylene wrap, but it is adequate to use the plastic wrap if the baby is placed on a radiant warmer.
Question
You are tasked to maintain the temperature of a preterm newborn. Which of the following is the most reliable method to maintain the preterm patient’s temperature?
a. Dry towels
b. Head cap
c. Polyethylene wrap
d. Mittens and booties
Answer
c. Polyethylene wrap