While inspecting a newborn's head, the nurse identifies a swelling of the scalp that does not cross the suture line. How would the nurse refer to this finding when documenting?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Enlarged fontanelle: An enlarged fontanelle refers to an abnormally large soft spot on the newborn’s skull, which may indicate increased intracranial pressure or delayed bone closure. It does not describe a localized scalp swelling limited by suture lines. B. Cephalohematoma: Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between the periosteum and the skull bone that is confined by suture lines. It typically develops a few hours to days after birth and does not cross sutures. C. Caput succedaneum: Caput succedaneum is generalized edema of the scalp that crosses suture lines. It is often present at birth due to pressure during delivery and resolves within a few days. D. Molding: Molding refers to the shaping of the newborn’s skull during passage through the birth canal, resulting in overlapping of the cranial bones. It is temporary and affects the shape of the head rather than presenting as a localized swelling.