Which of the following is NOT listed as a maternal factor associated with high risk infants?

• A. Extremes of maternal age
• B. Diabetes
• C. Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco use
• D. Regular prenatal care

Answer: (D)

High-risk infants are often linked to certain maternal factors that influence fetal growth and development, such as very young or advanced maternal age, diabetes, and substance use (drugs, alcohol, or tobacco). These factors can contribute to problems like preterm birth, growth restriction, or metabolic stress that increase the need for neonatal care, including respiratory support. Regular prenatal care, in contrast, is not a risk factor; it helps identify and manage these conditions, optimize maternal health, monitor fetal well-being, and reduce complications. So, regular prenatal care is not listed as a factor that raises risk for high-risk infants; it is a protective practice that lowers risk.