Answers SNHU
Q1. During examination of a healthy-appearing newborn, both eyes
should normally demonstrate which finding during red reflex
testing?
A) A white central reflection with dark peripheral margins
B) Symmetric reflexes of similar color, intensity, and clarity
C) Absence of any reflected light
D) A dark spot in one pupil and a bright reflex in the other
Correct Answer: B) Symmetric reflexes of similar color, intensity, and
clarity
Rationale: A normal red reflex should be present bilaterally and appear
generally symmetric. Marked asymmetry, dark areas, absent reflexes, or
white pupillary reflections can indicate ocular abnormalities requiring further
evaluation.
Q2. A white pupillary reflex is observed during examination of one
eye. What is the most appropriate response?
A) Reassess at the next annual examination
B) Reassure the family because the finding is common in newborns
C) Prescribe topical antibiotics
D) Arrange prompt ophthalmologic evaluation
Correct Answer: D) Arrange prompt ophthalmologic evaluation
Rationale: Leukocoria is an abnormal finding that may occur with serious
conditions such as congenital cataract or retinoblastoma. Because delay can
threaten vision and, in some disorders, life, the infant requires timely
specialist assessment.
Q3. What is the principal clinical purpose of the Apgar score?
A) Describe the newborn's clinical condition shortly after birth and response
to resuscitative interventions
B) Predict long-term intelligence
C) Diagnose perinatal asphyxia by itself
, D) Determine whether congenital anomalies are present
Correct Answer: A) Describe the newborn's clinical condition shortly after
birth and response to resuscitative interventions
Rationale: The Apgar score provides a standardized description of the
newborn's immediate condition using heart rate, respiration, muscle tone,
reflex response, and color. It helps communicate neonatal status but should
not independently predict long-term neurologic outcome.
Q4. Which statement about a low 1-minute Apgar score is most
accurate?
A) It confirms permanent neurologic injury
B) It establishes intrapartum asphyxia
C) It reflects the infant's early clinical status but cannot independently
predict the individual's long-term outcome
D) It makes a 5-minute assessment unnecessary
Correct Answer: C) It reflects the infant's early clinical status but cannot
independently predict the individual's long-term outcome
Rationale: A low early Apgar score may indicate neonatal depression or
need for intervention, but many factors can influence the score. Long-term
prognosis and diagnoses such as hypoxic-ischemic injury require
substantially more clinical evidence.
Q5. Which five components make up the Apgar score?
A) Weight, length, temperature, respiratory rate, and blood pressure
B) Color, heart rate, reflex irritability, muscle tone, and respiration
C) Feeding, crying, stooling, urination, and activity
D) Oxygen saturation, glucose, temperature, heart rate, and weight
Correct Answer: B) Color, heart rate, reflex irritability, muscle tone, and
respiration
Rationale: Apgar scoring evaluates five observable characteristics of
neonatal adaptation. Each receives a score of 0, 1, or 2, allowing rapid
standardized communication of the newborn's clinical condition after
delivery.