Question

A collection of blood between the skull bone and its periosteum is known as a cephalhematoma. To reassure the new parents whose infant develops such a soft bulge, it is important that the nurse be aware that this condition:

a. May occur with spontaneous vaginal birth.
b. Only happens as the result of a forceps or vacuum delivery.
c. Is present immediately after birth.
d. Will gradually absorb over the first few months of life.

Answer 1

A cephalhematoma is a collection of blood between the skull bone and periosteum. It can occur with regular vaginal birth and will gradually absorb over the first few months of life.

Step-by-step explanation:

A cephalhematoma is a collection of blood between the skull bone and its periosteum. It is important to reassure new parents that this condition:

1. May occur with spontaneous vaginal birth.
2. Is present immediately after birth.
3. Will gradually absorb over the first few months of life.

This means that it can happen during a regular birth and is not solely a result of a forceps or vacuum delivery. The soft bulge will gradually disappear on its own over time.