HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

During the assessment of a newborn, which infection risk should the nurse prioritize due to in utero exposure?

1. Respiratory infections

2. Gastrointestinal infections

3. Skin infections

4. Systemic infections

The correct answer is: Respiratory infections

In the context of a newborn assessment, the priority for infection risk due to in utero exposure is typically respiratory infections. This is because respiratory infections can be significantly influenced by maternal health during pregnancy, including whether the mother had any infections like group B streptococcus or viruses that could impact the newborn's respiratory system. Newborns may also be at risk from exposure to infectious agents that could lead to respiratory complications, such as pneumonia or other pulmonary challenges, particularly if there were any maternal respiratory illnesses. While gastrointestinal, skin, and systemic infections are important to consider, the respiratory system is often the first to be affected by infections transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or at the time of delivery. For instance, conditions like chorioamnionitis can lead to respiratory issues in the newborn due to potential aspiration of infected amniotic fluid or exposure during delivery. Therefore, prioritizing respiratory infections during the assessment allows for critical early intervention to ensure the newborn's airway and breathing are adequately supported and monitored.