Question

The nurse is performing an admission assessment for a newborn who has asymmetrical buttocks. Which assessment test results should the nurse report to the health care provider?

a. Ortolani maneuver causing a click at the hip joint
b. Babinski test that reveals fanning out of the toes
c. Plum line test indicates fetal position curvature
d. Moro test precipitating the startle response

Answer 1

The significant assessment test result that requires reporting to the healthcare provider is the presence of asymmetrical buttocks, suggestive of developmental dysplasia of the hip or other neuromuscular conditions. While the Moro reflex is part of the Apgar score, it does not specifically assess for asymmetry of the buttocks but is included in the overall neurological exam for the newborn.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment test result that should be reported to a healthcare provider when a nurse observes asymmetrical buttocks in a newborn is suggestive of a potential underlying neuromuscular or developmental issue. These include conditions such as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), which can manifest as asymmetry in the gluteal or thigh folds. The Moro reflex, or startle response, is not directly related to the observation of asymmetrical buttocks, but it is a part of the general neurological exam conducted via the Apgar score. However, an abnormal Moro reflex could be indicative of other issues, including neurological impairments, which also requires reporting to a healthcare provider.

It is important that if asymmetries or abnormal reflexes are observed, they are reported and further investigated by medical professionals to determine appropriate interventions or treatments. For example, DDH often requires treatment with a brace or surgery to correct hip alignment and prevent long-term complications.