Newborn Physiologic Adjustments (Integumentary System) Flashcards
What is vernix caseosa?
A cheeselike, whitish substance that is fused with the epidermis and serves as a protective covering.
What is significant about vernix caseosa?
Has emollient and antimicrobial properties and prevents fluid loss through the skin it also has antioxidant properties.
There is evidence that leaving residual vernix intact after r birth has positive benefits for new neonatal skin such as
Decreasing the skin pH
Decreasing skin erythema
Improving skin hydration
Why do the hands and feet of newborns appear slightly cyanotic?
This is caused by vasomotor instability and capillary stasis.
Acrocyanosis is normal and appears intermittently over the first ____ to _____ days, especially with exposure to _____.
7 to 10
Cold
Fine lanugo may be noted over what locations?
Face, shoulders, and back
The simian line, a single palmar crease, is often seen in
Asian infants
DS
Increased numbers of crease correlate with what?
Greater maturity rating
What are milia?
Distended, small, white sebaceous glands noticeable on the newborn’s face
Term infants usually do not sweat for the first ____ hrs
24
By day ___ sweating begins on the ___ and later progresses to the _____.
3 days
Face
Palms
What is desquamation?
Peeling of the skin of the term infant does not occur until a few days after birth.
Desquamation present at birth may be an indication of _____.
Postmaturity
What is mongolian spots?
Bluish-black areas of pigmentation, may appear over any part of the exterior surface of the body, including the extremities.
What ethnicity is more prone to mongolian spots?
Mediterranean, Latin american, Asia, or Africa
