A term infant is defined as having which gestational age range?

A term infant is defined as having which gestational age range?

• A. 38-42 weeks
• B. 42-46 weeks
• C. 34-37 weeks
• D. 40-44 weeks

Answer: (A)

Term refers to birth occurring after enough fetal maturation to support life outside the womb. In NBRC practice, a term infant is defined as 38 through 42 weeks of gestation. This window reflects when key systems, especially the lungs, are typically developed enough for independent breathing. Deliveries before 38 weeks are preterm, with higher risk of complications, while deliveries after 42 weeks are post-term, with risks from placental aging. Although some sources use 37–42 weeks as term, this item uses 38–42 weeks, making that range the correct choice.

Term refers to birth occurring after enough fetal maturation to support life outside the womb. In NBRC practice, a term infant is defined as 38 through 42 weeks of gestation. This window reflects when key systems, especially the lungs, are typically developed enough for independent breathing. Deliveries before 38 weeks are preterm, with higher risk of complications, while deliveries after 42 weeks are post-term, with risks from placental aging. Although some sources use 37–42 weeks as term, this item uses 38–42 weeks, making that range the correct choice.