Question

The nurse is working in the newborn nursery and observes neonates in various states of health and wellness. The nurse is

aware that which of the following factors can affect fetal development? Choose all that apply.
A) Age of mother
B) Prenatal nutrition
C) Substance abuse by mother
D) Congenital vision deficit
E) Poor neonatal nutrition

Answer 1

Factors affecting fetal development include the age of the mother, prenatal nutrition, and substance abuse by the mother. Congenital vision deficits are typically genetic, and poor neonatal nutrition impacts infants post-birth rather than during fetal development.

Step-by-step explanation:

The factors that can affect fetal development, and should be considered in the context of a newborn nursery observation, include:

• Age of mother: A mother's age can influence the development of the fetus, with increased risks associated with very young or advanced maternal age.
• Prenatal nutrition: Adequate nutrition is critical, with certain nutrients like folic acid being essential for preventing birth defects.
• Substance abuse by mother: Exposure to alcohol, drugs, or toxins can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and other developmental issues.
• Congenital vision deficit: This is a condition present at birth that affects vision and is not typically associated with factors affecting fetal development, but rather with genetic issues or complications during pregnancy.
• Poor neonatal nutrition: This refers to the nutrition a neonate receives after birth, not during fetal development.

Therefore, we can consider factors A, B, and C as influencing fetal development, with D and E not being directly related to fetal development.