A nurse is planning care for a preterm newborn.Which of the following nursing interventions to promote development should be included in the plan of care?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleKeeping the newborn in a well-lit nursery may interfere with their ability to develop circadian rhythms, which are critical for growth and development. Premature newborns are particularly sensitive to environmental stress, and excessive lighting can disrupt their sleep-wake cycle, increasing stress and affecting neurological development.Choice B rationaleClustering care activities minimizes disruptions and allows the newborn to have longer periods of rest. This approach is vital for preterm infants, as uninterrupted sleep enhances brain growth, reduces energy expenditure, and promotes physiological stability, such as maintaining appropriate heart and respiratory rates.Choice C rationaleUsing fingertips when calming the newborn may not provide the soothing effects of a whole-hand approach. Gentle hand placement offers a more consistent pressure that mimics the containment provided in the womb, aiding in neuromuscular development and decreasing stress in preterm infants.Choice D rationalePositioning the newborn to promote muscle extension opposes the fetal position they naturally adopt and disrupts their physiological flexion posture. This posture facilitates stability and self-regulation and supports motor development, which is essential for preterm infants adjusting to life outside the womb.