One of the major problems a premature infant may develop is respiratory distress syndrome. This occurs because in a premature infant,

A) oxygen transport is impaired.
B) surfactant isn't produced.
C) the lungs are collapsed.
D) there aren't enough red blood cells to carry oxygen.
E) there is mixing of the arterial and venous blood.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome

A medical condition characterized by severe respiratory dysfunction, commonly seen in premature infants or adults with damaged lung function.

Surfactant

Lipoproteins forming a monomolecular layer over pulmonary alveolar surfaces; stabilizes alveolar volume by reducing surface tension and the tendency for the alveoli to collapse.

Premature Infant

A premature infant, or preterm infant, is a baby born before 37 weeks of gestation, often requiring specialized care due to underdeveloped organs and systems.