Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What's a crucial factor in managing hydration in very low birth weight infants?

1. Oral intake

2. Fluid restriction

3. Assessment of skin turgor

4. Intravenous fluids

The correct answer is: Assessment of skin turgor

In managing hydration in very low birth weight infants, assessing skin turgor plays a vital role. Skin turgor is an important clinical indicator of hydration status. In neonates, particularly those who are very low birth weight, a reduced skin turgor may suggest dehydration or increased fluid loss, which can be common due to factors such as immature skin integrity and increased insensible water loss. Accurate assessment of skin turgor allows healthcare providers to monitor hydration effectively and make informed decisions about fluid management. Since very low birth weight infants are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in hydration status, early identification of dehydration is critical to ensure timely intervention and prevent complications. Additionally, skin turgor assessment, along with other clinical signs and laboratory evaluations, supports a comprehensive understanding of the infant's hydration status, guiding the necessary modifications in fluid therapy—whether through oral or intravenous methods as indicated. Thus, mastering the skill of skin turgor assessment equips neonatal practitioners to manage hydration thoughtfully and safely in this vulnerable population.