A nurse is assessing a newborn baby boy. Which of the following findings indicates a strong possibility of congenital defects in the newborn?

Question

A) Presence of cyanotic discoloration of the newborn's arms and legs
B) Absence of indentation over the xiphoid process during breathing
C) Presence of two blood vessels on the umbilical cord
D) Enlargement and darker pigmentation of the scrotum

Answer 1

C
Feedback:
The presence of two blood vessels on the umbilical cord indicates a strong possibility of congenital defects in the newborn. Normally, the umbilical cord has three visible vessels: two arteries and one vein. The presence of cyanotic discoloration of the newborn's arms and legs is caused by slowed peripheral circulation. This condition is called acrocyanosis and is common in the first 24 hours of life; it is more prominent when the newborn is exposed to cold. The xiphoid process (lower tip of the sternum) should not indent during breathing, as any degree of indentation is a sign of distress. In male newborns, the scrotum usually appears relatively larger and may have darker pigmentation than the parents expect. This is caused by the hormones of the mother, and will decrease within a few weeks.