A nurse is providing education to a client who is postpartum and has an infant with microcephaly.
Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?
A nurse is providing education to a client who is postpartum and has an infant with microcephaly.
Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?
A. "I understand that microcephaly may cause an abnormally small head size."
[7%]
B. "Microcephaly is always caused by genetic factors."
[73%]
C. "I will ensure our baby receives regular developmental assessments."
[6%]
D. "Infections during my pregnancy may have caused microcephaly."
[14%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Child Health
Lesson
Neurologic
Client Need
Test Plan
Physiological Adaptation
Related Topic
Alterations in Body Systems
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice B is correct. Microcephaly can have various causes, including genetic factors, environmental factors, infections during pregnancy, and other factors. While genetic mutations can contribute to microcephaly in some cases, it is not always solely caused by genetic factors. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for further teaching.
Choice A is incorrect. Microcephaly is indeed characterized by an abnormally small head size due to incomplete brain development or undergrowth of the brain during pregnancy or early childhood. Understanding this characteristic of microcephaly is important for parents in recognizing and managing the condition.
Choice C is incorrect. This statement reflects appropriate proactive measures to monitor the child's development and identify any potential developmental delays early. Regular developmental assessments are essential for monitoring the child's progress, identifying any concerns, and implementing interventions as needed.
Choice D is incorrect. Infections during pregnancy, such as Zika virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), rubella (German measles), or toxoplasmosis, can increase the risk of microcephaly in the developing fetus. Therefore, limiting exposure to infections during pregnancy is an important preventive measure.
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2 Key Topics

Microcephaly
31.9 Neurologic Disorders
Additional Info
✓ Microcephaly is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally small head size, typically due to incomplete brain development or undergrowth of the brain during pregnancy or early childhood. The term "microcephaly" is derived from the Greek words "micro," meaning small, and "kephalÄ“," meaning head.
✓ In approximately 15-20% of cases, microcephaly is thought to be primarily genetic, resulting from mutations in specific genes involved in brain development.
✓ Microcephaly can have a significant impact on affected individuals and their families, requiring comprehensive and individualized care to optimize outcomes and quality of life. Early detection, intervention, and support services are essential for addressing the developmental challenges associated with microcephaly and promoting the best possible outcomes for affected individuals.