Asked by Shelby Gallegos on May 09, 2024
Verified
Maggie and Ben's preterm baby has been diagnosed as having respiratory distress syndrome. Which of the following is TRUE regarding respiratory distress syndrome?
A) It is due to maternal exposure to teratogens during pregnancy.
B) The baby's muscles may not be mature enough to sustain independent breathing.
C) The air sacs in the baby's lungs are over-lubricated, which makes breathing difficult.
D) It is due to anoxia during delivery.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome
A medical condition often occurring in premature infants, characterized by difficulty breathing due to underdeveloped lungs.
Teratogens
Factors or agents responsible for causing congenital defects or developmental problems in an embryo or fetus.
- Acknowledge the determinants impacting health conditions in newborns, encompassing premature birth, insufficient birth weight, and lack of oxygen during delivery.
Verified Answer
BR
Brianda RamirezMay 15, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm babies is primarily due to the immaturity of the lungs, which includes insufficient production of surfactant. This deficiency makes it difficult for the air sacs to stay open, hence the baby's muscles may not be mature enough to sustain independent breathing.
Learning Objectives
- Acknowledge the determinants impacting health conditions in newborns, encompassing premature birth, insufficient birth weight, and lack of oxygen during delivery.