Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nursing Practice Test 2025 – The Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Advanced paternal age is indeed not considered a significant risk factor for sepsis in neonates. While various maternal and neonatal factors contribute to the risk of this serious infection, advanced paternal age does not directly impact neonatal health or the likelihood of sepsis. In contrast, conditions like prematurity, central line placement, and maternal Group B Streptococcus (GBS) significantly increase the risk of sepsis.

Premature infants often have underdeveloped immune systems which leave them more vulnerable to infections. The placement of central lines can introduce pathogens directly into the bloodstream, increasing the chances of sepsis. Maternal GBS is a known risk factor because GBS can be transmitted from mother to infant during delivery, posing a heightened risk of early-onset sepsis. Therefore, focusing on the impact of maternal health and neonatal care practices elucidates why advanced paternal age does not function as a risk factor for sepsis in neonates.