Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What is a major advantage of ultrasonography over other diagnostic imaging methods?

1. Detection in changes in tissue density

2. Two dimensional visualization of anatomy

3. Utilizes radio waves to evaluate tissue structure

4. Magnetic resonance imaging

The correct answer is: Detection in changes in tissue density

The major advantage of ultrasonography lies in its ability to provide real-time imaging using sound waves, which is inherently safer and avoids the risks associated with ionizing radiation found in other imaging modalities. It excels in detecting changes in tissue density, which can be particularly useful for assessing various conditions in neonates. This capability allows for the differentiation between fluid-filled structures and solid masses, providing essential information for diagnosis and guiding management. While two-dimensional visualization of anatomy is a feature of ultrasonography, other imaging methods, like MRI and CT, also offer detailed anatomical imaging. The use of radio waves pertains specifically to MRI, not ultrasonography, which uses sound waves. Thus, while each imaging technique has its own strengths, the specific advantage of ultrasonography is its ability to detect changes in tissue density coupled with safety, making it a preferred option in neonatal imaging.