Question

The newborn is diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome. The nurse knows which action is an important consideration for this newborn?

1. Prevent iron deficiency anemia.
2. Decrease touch to prevent over stimulation.
3. Provide feedings via gavage to decrease energy expenditure.
4. Replace vitamins depleted as a result of poor maternal diet.

Answer 1

The most crucial action for a newborn with fetal alcohol syndrome is to replace vitamins depleted as a result of poor maternal diet, with an emphasis on providing sufficient folic acid to mitigate developmental issues associated with prenatal vitamin deficiencies (Option 4).

Step-by-step explanation:

A newborn diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) presents with a range of potential health issues due to maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

While all the choices might be considerations for a newborn with FAS, the most crucial action from the options provided is typically to 'replace vitamins depleted' as a result of poor maternal diet, including providing sufficient folic acid.

This is crucial due to the strong association between prenatal vitamin deficiency, particularly folate deficiency, and birth defects.

Replacement of vitamins can help mitigate certain developmental issues that may arise from the mother's deficiency during pregnancy.

It is also important to note that children with FAS may require additional interventions beyond vitamin replacement, such as specialized feeding techniques, and strategies to manage cognitive and behavioral problems associated with the syndrome.

However, the selected action must be tailored to the specific needs of each individual child and done under medical supervision.

Hence, the correct answer is Option 4.