A premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) receives artificial surfactant. How does the nurse explain surfactant therapy to the parents?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because artificial surfactant improves the ability of the infant's lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. Surfactant reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse and helping with gas exchange. This explanation directly relates to the purpose of surfactant therapy in treating RDS. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the mechanism or purpose of surfactant therapy. Choice A is incorrect as surfactant does not affect sedation needs, choice C is incorrect as surfactant is not used to address tachycardia, and choice D is incorrect as surfactant is not used to treat respiratory tract infections.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because discharge teaching should start as early as possible and continue throughout the admission to ensure the family receives adequate education and support. Starting early allows for more time to address any concerns, teach necessary skills, and build confidence in caring for the premature infant. This approach promotes better outcomes for both the infant and the family. Choice A is incorrect because waiting for the infant to meet specific goals may delay essential education and support for the family. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on a specific medical intervention rather than comprehensive teaching. Choice C is incorrect because interest alone may not indicate readiness or understanding of the care required for a premature infant.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the mother was trained on NG tube replacement. This knowledge ensures proper technique and reduces the risk of injury. Driving to the ER or calling 911 may waste time, and feeding by mouth without the NG tube is not safe. Replacing the NG tube at home is the most efficient and appropriate course of action in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Demonstrating successful G-tube feeds indicates understanding and ability to provide necessary nutrition to the infant. Step 2: Correct feeding times show adherence to the prescribed schedule for optimal care. Step 3: Successful demonstration implies comprehension of G-tube feed technique and importance of consistency. Step 4: This knowledge ensures the infant receives proper nutrition and contributes to their overall well-being. Summary: Choice A is correct as it demonstrates the family's readiness to provide essential care for the infant. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not address the core aspect of ensuring proper nutrition and care through successful G-tube feeds.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Small for gestational age. This term describes an infant born with a birth weight below the 10th percentile for gestational age, indicating intrauterine growth restriction. This term specifically addresses the infant's size in relation to their gestational age, distinguishing it from other choices. A: Appropriate for gestational age refers to infants whose birth weight falls within the normal range for their gestational age, not below the 10th percentile. B: Failure to thrive is a broader term encompassing various factors affecting a child's growth and development, not specifically related to birth weight percentile. D: Infant born to mother of gestational diabetes pertains to a specific maternal condition that may affect the infant's health but does not directly address the infant's birth weight percentile.