Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What is a key characteristic of subarachnoid hemorrhages in neonates?

1. Often leads to long-term neurologic problems

2. Often described as "well baby with seizures"

3. Most diagnosed by MRI

4. Prevalent in premature infants

The correct answer is: Often described as "well baby with seizures"

A key characteristic of subarachnoid hemorrhages in neonates is that these infants may present as a "well baby with seizures." This phenomenon occurs because the hemorrhage can be relatively asymptomatic at first, leading the neonate to appear healthy or stable despite the underlying condition. The onset of seizures, which may be the first indication of a serious underlying issue, can often catch clinicians off guard, thus the description fits. Neonates can have subtle changes in their overall demeanor and very mild clinical symptoms, which makes it crucial for clinicians to consider a wide variety of potential issues when evaluating a newborn presenting with seizures, particularly when those seizures arise in an otherwise healthy-appearing infant. Other options do highlight important considerations regarding subarachnoid hemorrhages, such as the potential for long-term neurologic problems, the methods of diagnosis, and prevalence in premature infants; however, they do not encapsulate the immediate clinical presentation characteristic of this condition as accurately as the description of seizures in an otherwise "well" baby does.