Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What does it indicate when a preterm neonate recoils from the mother's touch after being weaned from a ventilator?

1. A lack of bonding between mother and child

2. Detachment due to multiple caregivers

3. The infant's association of touch with pain

The correct answer is: The infant's association of touch with pain

When a preterm neonate recoils from the mother's touch after being weaned from a ventilator, it strongly indicates that the infant has developed an association of touch with pain. Premature infants often undergo several medical interventions, including intubation, suctioning, and other invasive procedures that can cause discomfort or pain. These experiences may lead to a negative association with touch, causing the neonate to react reflexively by withdrawing or recoiling when touched. The experience of pain and stress during their neonatal care can alter a preterm infant's responses to stimuli, including tactile stimuli. The recoil can signify a learned response where the infant interprets touch as potentially harmful, reflecting their past encounters rather than a reflection of their emotional state towards the caregiver. Thus, this behavioral response is a critical consideration in neonatal care and highlights the need for sensitive handling and supportive techniques to encourage positive interactions and bonding experiences between the mother and her infant. Proper understanding and management of these reactions can promote better outcomes in preterm infants’ recovery and bonding with their caregivers.