What is the primary cause of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm neonates?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In preterm neonates, the primary cause of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is surfactant deficiency. Surfactant is a substance produced by the lungs that helps keep the air sacs open, allowing for proper gas exchange. In preterm infants, the lungs are often not fully developed, leading to insufficient surfactant production. This deficiency results in collapsed air sacs, making it difficult for the neonate to breathe effectively. Option A (Surfactant deficiency) is the correct answer because it directly addresses the underlying issue in RDS. Options B, C, and D are incorrect. Infection (B) can certainly cause respiratory distress but is not the primary cause of RDS in preterm neonates. Airway obstruction (C) and pneumothorax (D) are also potential causes of respiratory distress but are not the primary etiology of RDS in this population. Educationally, understanding the pathophysiology of RDS is crucial for nursing care of preterm neonates with respiratory disorders. Recognizing surfactant deficiency as the primary cause guides appropriate interventions such as surfactant replacement therapy and respiratory support to improve oxygenation. This knowledge is vital for nurses caring for neonates in the NICU to provide safe and effective care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In neonates, a common complication of prolonged mechanical ventilation is pneumothorax. Pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, leading to lung collapse. Neonates are particularly vulnerable due to their immature lungs and the use of positive pressure ventilation. Option A is correct because prolonged ventilation can damage delicate neonatal lung tissue, increasing the risk of air leaks and pneumothorax. Option B, hypoglycemia, is not a typical complication of prolonged mechanical ventilation in neonates. Hypoglycemia is more commonly associated with issues like prematurity or sepsis in this population. Option C, hyperkalemia, is also not a common complication of prolonged mechanical ventilation in neonates. Hyperkalemia is more often seen in conditions like renal failure or certain medications. Option D, necrotizing enterocolitis, is a gastrointestinal complication often seen in premature infants but is not directly related to prolonged mechanical ventilation. Understanding these complications is crucial for nurses caring for neonates on mechanical ventilation. Proper monitoring, early identification, and prompt intervention are vital to prevent or manage these potential complications effectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In preterm neonates, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is commonly associated with mechanical ventilation (Option B). IVH is a significant concern in premature infants due to the fragility of their developing blood vessels in the brain. The use of mechanical ventilation can lead to fluctuations in intracranial pressure, which in turn can increase the risk of IVH. Option A, hyperbilirubinemia, is not directly linked to IVH but is more commonly associated with conditions like jaundice in newborns. Option C, sepsis, can lead to various complications in preterm infants but is not a primary cause of IVH. Option D, infection, while a serious concern in neonates, is not a direct contributor to IVH. In an educational context, understanding the risk factors and complications associated with IVH in preterm neonates is crucial for nurses caring for this vulnerable population. By recognizing the relationship between mechanical ventilation and IVH, healthcare providers can implement strategies to minimize the risk of this serious neurological condition in premature infants.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the care of preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome, the most common method of oxygen administration is nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). CPAP helps keep the airways open and improves oxygenation without the need for invasive intubation or mechanical ventilation. It is effective in supporting the neonate's breathing efforts while minimizing the risks associated with more invasive interventions. Option A, the oxygen hood, is not typically used in this population as it does not provide the same level of respiratory support as CPAP. Endotracheal intubation (Option C) and mechanical ventilation (Option D) are more invasive measures that are reserved for cases where CPAP is insufficient in maintaining adequate oxygenation and ventilation. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate oxygen administration methods for neonates with respiratory distress syndrome is crucial for nursing students to provide safe and effective care. Knowledge of the indications, benefits, and potential complications of each method allows nurses to make informed clinical decisions and optimize outcomes for their pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Hemolytic disease of the newborn. Hemolytic disease of the newborn occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and the baby, leading to the destruction of the baby's red blood cells and subsequent release of bilirubin, causing jaundice. This condition can manifest in the first 24 hours of life. Option B) Physiological jaundice is incorrect because it typically appears after the first 24 hours of life and is due to the immature liver's inability to process bilirubin efficiently. Option C) Breastfeeding jaundice is also incorrect as it occurs in breastfed infants due to insufficient intake of breast milk, leading to dehydration and elevated bilirubin levels. Option D) Infection is incorrect as a cause of jaundice in the first 24 hours of life. Infections typically present with other symptoms and are not the primary cause of jaundice in the immediate newborn period. Understanding the causes of jaundice in newborns is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients as it helps in early identification and appropriate management to prevent complications like kernicterus. Educating healthcare providers and parents about the different types of jaundice and their implications is essential for promoting optimal outcomes in neonatal care.