Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

Where are the most prominent and sensitive skin thermal receptors located in neonates?

1. Abdomen

2. Crown of head

3. Trigeminal area of the face

4. Upper arms

The correct answer is: Trigeminal area of the face

The most prominent and sensitive skin thermal receptors in neonates are found in the trigeminal area of the face. This area is particularly important because it plays a significant role in regulating temperature sensation and response in newborns. The trigeminal nerve, which innervates the face, contains a high concentration of sensory receptors, making this area particularly sensitive to temperature changes. In neonates, effective thermoregulation is crucial due to their immature systems, and the sensitivity of the trigeminal area allows for a more rapid response to environmental temperature fluctuations. This is essential for the protection against hypothermia and helps in ensuring that the newborn can maintain an appropriate core body temperature, which is vital for their overall health and stability. Other locations, such as the abdomen, crown of the head, and upper arms, have thermal receptors but are not as prominent or sensitive as those in the trigeminal area. The abdomen does contribute to thermoregulation but is less sensitive compared to the face. The crown of the head has a certain level of sensitivity, mainly due to the thinness of the skin, yet it does not surpass that of the trigeminal area. The upper arms also contain thermal receptors, but they are not as significant in terms of