Maternal and Child Health Flashcards

At what gestational age is a pregnancy considered full term?

Answer: 39–40 weeks

Full term is defined as 39 0/7 to 40 6/7 weeks gestation. Early term is 37–38 weeks, late term is 41 weeks, and postterm is 42 weeks or beyond. Full-term infants have the best outcomes compared to early-term deliveries.

A child with meningitis is placed in a darkened room. Which symptom explains this intervention?

Answer: Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

Photophobia (extreme sensitivity to light) is a classic sign of meningitis caused by meningeal irritation. A darkened, quiet environment reduces stimulation that worsens headache and discomfort in patients with meningeal inflammation.

Which child with fever should be referred to the emergency department immediately?

Answer: A 3-week-old infant with temperature of 38°C

Fever in a neonate under 3 months is a medical emergency. The neonatal immune system cannot reliably contain bacterial infection, and serious bacterial infection (meningitis, sepsis, UTI) cannot be excluded without full septic workup including lumbar puncture.

What is the purpose of Rho(D) immune globulin (RhoGAM)?

Answer: To prevent Rh sensitization in Rh-negative mothers

RhoGAM is given to Rh-negative mothers at 28 weeks gestation and within 72 hours after delivery, miscarriage, amniocentesis, or trauma. It provides passive immunity that prevents the mother from forming anti-Rh antibodies that would affect future pregnancies.

Which finding indicates a newborn has adequate hydration?

Answer: 6 or more wet diapers per day after day 4

After the first 3–4 days, a well-hydrated newborn should produce at least 6 wet diapers per day. Fewer wet diapers, concentrated urine, or dry mucous membranes suggest inadequate fluid intake and possible feeding difficulties.

A child with asthma is having a severe attack. Which medication is given first?

Answer: Short-acting beta-2 agonist (salbutamol/albuterol) via nebulizer

Short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABAs) such as salbutamol (albuterol) cause rapid bronchodilation by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle and are the first-line rescue medication for acute asthma attacks. Systemic corticosteroids are added for moderate to severe attacks.