Answer: B - The newborn infant with respiratory distress syndrome may present with clinical signs of cyanosis, tachypnea or apnea, nasal flaring, chest wall retractions, or audible grunts.
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a serious breathing problem that affects newborn infants. It is caused by a lack of surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs expand and contract during breathing. Without surfactant, the air sacs in the lungs collapse, making it difficult for the infant to breathe. RDS is most common in premature infants born before 37 weeks of gestation, as they have not yet produced enough surfactant to support breathing.
The symptoms of RDS can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the age of the infant. Common symptoms include:
Rapid or shallow breathing: The infant may breathe more rapidly than normal, and their breaths may be shallow.
Grunting noises: The infant may make a grunting sound as they try to exhale.
Flaring nostrils: The infant's nostrils may flare as they struggle to breathe.
Cyanosis: The infant's skin or lips may turn blue due to a lack of oxygen.
Retractions: The infant's chest may appear to sink in with each breath, indicating increased effort to breathe.
Weak cry: The infant may have a weak cry or be too weak to cry at all.
Diagnosis of RDS is typically made based on the symptoms and a physical exam. The doctor may also perform tests such as a chest X-ray, blood gas analysis, or pulse oximetry to measure oxygen levels in the blood.
Treatment for RDS usually involves supporting the infant's breathing and providing supplemental oxygen. In severe cases, the infant may need to be placed on a ventilator to assist with breathing. The doctor may also give the infant surfactant replacement therapy to help the lungs function properly. Other treatments may include medication to help the infant breathe more easily, or antibiotics if there is a risk of infection.
In addition to medical treatment, care for an infant with RDS may involve keeping the infant warm and comfortable, feeding them small amounts frequently, and monitoring their vital signs closely. With proper treatment and care, most infants recover from RDS within a few days to a few weeks. However, some infants may experience long-term complications such as chronic lung disease or developmental delays.
