RNC Low Risk Neonatal Nursing Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Exam Preparation

Craniotabes is a condition characterized by softening of the skull bones, which can manifest as areas of indentation or thinning, often perceived as a "ping-pong" ball sensation. It is typically associated with conditions that impact bone health and mineralization.

Normal anatomical variation stands out as the correct choice because it refers to variations in the structure or appearance of the skull that are considered within the range of normal development. Craniotabes as a normal variation is commonly observed, particularly in premature infants, who may exhibit this condition without any underlying pathology or health issue. In contrast, rickets, osteogenesis imperfecta, and hypocalcemia are medical conditions that typically impair bone integrity and play a significant role in the development of craniotabes due to their effects on calcium and bone metabolism.

Rickets, for instance, is associated with vitamin D deficiency which leads to inadequate mineralization of the bones, resulting in softness and deformities. Osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder characterized by brittle bones due to a defect in collagen, leading to fragility and a higher likelihood of abnormalities in bone structure, including craniotabes. Hypocalcemia, relating to low calcium levels in the blood, could similarly cause decreased bone mineral density, contributing