Question

Which physical signs are indicative of a premature infant?

A) Full sole creases and nails extending beyond fingertips

B) Ear cartilage remains folded over, lanugo present, and some flexion of arms and legs at rest

C) Testes deep in rugae covered scrotum and 1-cm breast bud

D) Peeling skin without visible veins and rapid recoil of legs and arms

Answer 1

Premature infants typically have signs such as underdeveloped nails, presence of lanugo, folded ear cartilage, and reduced flexion in limbs, all of which indicate the early stage of development the infant is in due to premature birth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The physical signs indicative of a premature infant include a lack of full sole creases, nails not extending beyond the fingertips, ear cartilage that remains folded over, the presence of lanugo, and limited flexion of the arms and legs at rest. These signs suggest that the infant has not fully developed to the typical milestones expected at full term. For example, lanugo is a fine, soft hair that covers a fetus and is usually shed as the fetus grows; its presence in a newborn indicates prematurity. Similarly, less defined sole creases on the infant's feet and underdeveloped nails also signify a premature birth. The cartilage in the ears of premature infants is softer, causing them to fold over easily. A lack of flexion and the inability of the limbs to maintain a flexed position indicate insufficient muscle tone, which is also associated with premature infants.