NCLEX® QOTD: Cleft lip and palate
Oct 9, 2024
The nurse in the outpatient clinic is caring for several pregnant patients. Which patient(s) is/are at risk for delivering an infant with cleft lip and/or palate? Select all that apply.
A. A client exposed to radiation in the first trimester
B. A client with a history of rubella during pregnancy
C. A client who is 32-years-old at the time of delivery
D. A client taking anticonvulsants during pregnancy
E. A client who smoked cigarettes throughout their pregnancyScroll down for the correct answer!
The correct answers to today's NCLEX-RN® Question are...
A. A client exposed to radiation in the first trimester
Rationale: Radiation is a known teratogen, or something that can harm an unborn fetus, which can increase the risk of delivering an infant with cleft lip and palate.
B. A client with a history of rubella during pregnancy
Rationale: Infections like rubella can increase the risk of delivering an infant with cleft lip and palate.
D. A client taking anticonvulsants during pregnancy
Rationale: Anticonvulsant medications may increase the risk of delivering an infant with cleft lip and palate.
E. A client who smoked cigarettes throughout their pregnancy
Rationale: Smoking cigarettes or exposure to cigarette smoke can increase the risk of delivering an infant with cleft lip and palate.
Major Takeaway
Cleft lip is an opening or a split in the upper lip, whereas cleft palate describes an opening or a split in the roof of the mouth, called the hard palate. The cause of cleft lip and palate is unknown, with some theories suggesting multifactorial genetic and environmental involvement. However, several risk factors for cleft lip and palate have been identified, including folate deficiency, as well as exposure to teratogens, such as maternal smoking and exposure to radiation, and using certain medications during pregnancy, such as anticonvulsants or steroids. Other risk factors include advanced maternal age, and certain infections during pregnancy, especially the rubella virus.
Incorrect answer explanations
C. A client who is 32-years-old at the time of delivery
Rationale: Advanced maternal age is a risk factor for cleft lip and palate, however this client is not of advanced maternal age since they are not over 35-years-old.
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