P R O F E S S I O N A L P R A C T I C E M AT E R I A L S
NUR 253 Mental Health
Nursing Exam 4 Questions
& Answers 2026-2027 |
Latest Exam Questions
(Rationales)
Verified Answers Exam Ready With Rationales 89 QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT OVERVIEW
This document provides 89 questions with pre-filled correct answers and detailed
rationales, covering perinatal nursing. It is a comprehensive study resource directly aligning
with exam preparation and review for mental health nursing courses. Students can
effectively utilize this material to reinforce learning and ensure mastery of key concepts.
TOPICS
Newborn Assessment & Reflexes Q1–Q30
Newborn Physiology & Adaptations Q31–Q61
Infant Care & Interventions Q62–Q68
Maternal-Newborn Feeding & Lactation Q69–Q84
Pregnancy Complications & Risks Q85–Q88
Pain Management & Comfort Q89–Q89
Page 1
, E XA M Q U EST I O N S
Q1 QUESTION 1 OF 89
How many periods of reactivity are there?
CORRECT ANSWER
2
RATIONALE
2. The periods of reactivity describe distinct phases of physiological activity following a surgical
procedure. These are typically categorized into the immediate postoperative period and the
subsequent recovery period.
Q2 QUESTION 2 OF 89
How long does the first reactivity period last?
CORRECT ANSWER
30 minutes after birth
RATIONALE
The first reactivity period, also known as the first period of reactivity, is the initial phase of a
newborn's development immediately following birth. This period is characterized by vigorous
activity and alertness, lasting for approximately 30 minutes after delivery.
Q3 QUESTION 3 OF 89
During the first reactivity period, how much does the HR increase?
CORRECT ANSWER
160-180
Page 2
, RATIONALE
During the first reactivity period, the heart rate (HR) typically increases by 160-180 beats per
minute. This elevation reflects the physiological stress response to the initial stimuli or conditions
encountered.
Q4 QUESTION 4 OF 89
What happens to the resp. during the first reactivity period?
CORRECT ANSWER
irregular
RATIONALE
During the first reactivity period, which occurs in the first 30 minutes after birth, the newborn's
respiratory rate is typically irregular. This irregularity is characterized by periods of rapid breathing
alternating with pauses, reflecting the immature control of respiration in the neonate.
Q5 QUESTION 5 OF 89
What happens to the motor activity during the first reactivity period?
CORRECT ANSWER
decrease followed by 60-100 min of sleep
RATIONALE
During the first reactivity period, a newborn's motor activity initially decreases as they transition
from the uterine environment. This is followed by a phase of sleep that typically lasts for 60 to 100
minutes.
Q6 QUESTION 6 OF 89
When is the second period of reactivity?
CORRECT ANSWER
4-8 hrs after birth
Page 3
, RATIONALE
The second period of reactivity in newborns is a phase characterized by increased activity and
physiological changes. This period typically begins after the initial period of reactivity and the
subsequent sleep phase.
Q7 QUESTION 7 OF 89
What happens during the second period of reactivity?
CORRECT ANSWER
tachycardia, tachypnea, and meconium passes
RATIONALE
The second period of reactivity in neonates is characterized by a return to a more stable state after
the initial transition. During this phase, which can last several hours, the infant may experience
increased heart rate (tachycardia) and respiratory rate (tachypnea) as their body continues to
adjust.
Q8 QUESTION 8 OF 89
Normal newborn HR:
CORRECT ANSWER
120-160
RATIONALE
The normal heart rate for a newborn infant typically ranges between 120 and 160 beats per minute
when the infant is awake and alert. This rate can fluctuate based on activity level, crying, or sleep.
Q9 QUESTION 9 OF 89
Mongolian spots:
CORRECT ANSWER
type of birthmark
Page 4