Question

A new mother asks the nurse about the "white substance" covering her infant. How should the nurse explain the purpose of vernix caseosa?

a.Vernix caseosa protects the fetal skin from the amniotic fluid.
b.Vernix caseosa promotes the normal development of the peripheral nervous system.
c.Vernix caseosa allows the transport of oxygen and nutrients across the amnion.
d.Vernix caseosa regulates fetal temperature

Answer 1

Vernix caseosa is a waxy substance that protects the fetal skin from the amniotic fluid. It acts as a barrier and helps moisturize the skin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Vernix caseosa is a white, cheese-like substance that covers the skin of a newborn baby. It is a waxy, protective coating that is present on the skin during fetal development and is most prominent at the time of birth. The word "vernix" is derived from the Latin word for "varnish," emphasizing its protective role.

Vernix caseosa is a waxy substance that covers the fetal skin during development. Its purpose is to protect the fetal skin from the amniotic fluid. The vernix acts as a barrier, preventing the skin from becoming chapped or irritated by the fluid. It also helps to moisturize the skin and may provide lubrication during childbirth.