Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

Which of the following are signs of neonatal dehydration?

1. Jaundice and lethargy

2. Sunken eyes and cold feet

3. Rapid weight gain and excessive thirst

4. High blood pressure and irritability

The correct answer is: Sunken eyes and cold feet

The signs of neonatal dehydration are important indicators that the newborn is not receiving adequate fluid intake. Sunken eyes and cold feet are classic manifestations of dehydration in neonates. When a baby is dehydrated, the body has decreased fluid volume, which can lead to observable changes such as the appearance of the eyes appearing sunken, indicating a lack of proper hydration. Similarly, cold feet can be a sign of poor circulation often associated with electrolyte imbalances and systemic dehydration. While jaundice and lethargy can occur in various conditions, including those unrelated to dehydration, they are not specific indicators. Rapid weight gain and excessive thirst are contradictory signs, as dehydration typically leads to weight loss, not gain. High blood pressure is less common in neonates and does not generally indicate dehydration; irritability can stem from numerous causes that may or may not be related to hydration status. Thus, the combination of sunken eyes and cold feet effectively encapsulates the signs that indicate a newborn may be experiencing dehydration.