Which of the following is the most common complication of premature birth?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In premature infants, the most common complication is Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS). RDS occurs due to immature lungs that lack surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs open. Premature infants often have underdeveloped lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing and insufficient oxygen exchange, resulting in respiratory distress. This condition is more prevalent in premature babies born before 34 weeks gestation. Option A, Intraventricular hemorrhage, is a common complication in premature babies, but it is not the most common. It refers to bleeding into the brain's ventricles and is associated with prematurity and low birth weight. Option B, Necrotizing enterocolitis, is a serious gastrointestinal condition seen in premature infants. It involves inflammation and damage to the intestinal tissue, often requiring surgical intervention. While it is a significant complication, it is not as common as RDS in premature infants. Option D, Retinopathy of prematurity, is a condition affecting the eyes of premature infants. It is caused by abnormal blood vessel development in the retina and can lead to vision impairment or blindness. While this is a concern for premature infants, it is not as common as RDS. Understanding the common complications of premature birth is crucial for pediatric nurses caring for these vulnerable infants. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of RDS and knowing how to provide appropriate respiratory support are essential skills in pediatric respiratory nursing. By identifying and managing RDS early, nurses can help improve outcomes for premature infants in their care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pediatric respiratory nursing, understanding the complications of neonatal sepsis is crucial for providing optimal care to newborns. The most common complication of neonatal sepsis is respiratory failure, making option B the correct answer. Neonatal sepsis can lead to systemic inflammatory responses that can significantly impact the respiratory system, resulting in respiratory distress and failure. This is due to the body's response to the infection, leading to inflammation in the lungs and impaired gas exchange. Option A, hypoglycemia, while a common issue in neonates, is not the most common complication of sepsis. Option C, acidosis, can occur as a result of sepsis, but it is more commonly associated with respiratory failure in this context. Option D, intraventricular hemorrhage, is typically seen in preterm infants and is not directly related to sepsis. Educationally, understanding the pathophysiology of neonatal sepsis and its complications is vital for nurses caring for newborns. Recognizing respiratory failure as a common complication allows nurses to monitor and intervene promptly to support respiratory function and improve outcomes for these vulnerable patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the management of a neonate diagnosed with meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), the first-line treatment is positive pressure ventilation (Option B). This intervention is crucial in supporting the neonate's respiratory efforts and improving oxygenation in the presence of meconium obstructing the airways. Positive pressure ventilation helps to open collapsed alveoli, improve lung compliance, and prevent respiratory failure in these infants. Surfactant therapy (Option A) is not the first-line treatment for MAS. While surfactant replacement therapy may be indicated in certain respiratory conditions, it is not the primary intervention for addressing meconium aspiration. Antibiotics (Option C) are not indicated as the initial treatment for MAS unless there is a concurrent infection present. The primary focus in MAS management is on respiratory support rather than antimicrobial therapy. Oxygen therapy (Option D) may be used in MAS to optimize oxygenation; however, it is not the first-line treatment. Positive pressure ventilation takes precedence in addressing the respiratory distress associated with meconium aspiration. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate management of MAS is crucial for nurses caring for neonates in various clinical settings. By knowing the first-line treatment and rationale behind it, nurses can provide prompt and effective care to improve outcomes for infants with MAS. Additionally, this knowledge helps nurses prioritize interventions based on the specific needs of neonates with respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In a neurodevelopmental assessment of a 3-month-old infant, the expected characteristic would be the ability to lift their head and chest when placed in a prone position. This skill, known as prone extension, typically develops around 2-4 months of age and indicates good head control and strength in the neck and upper body muscles. Option A, a strong Moro reflex, is an involuntary response seen in newborns and typically diminishes by 3-4 months of age. Option B, a strong parachute reflex, is a protective response that emerges around 6-9 months when the infant is held upright and suddenly moved as if falling. Rolling from front to back, as in Option C, usually occurs around 4-6 months of age and is not expected at 3 months. Understanding these developmental milestones is crucial for pediatric nurses as it helps in assessing the infant's growth and identifying any potential delays or concerns. By recognizing age-appropriate behaviors, nurses can provide appropriate interventions and support for optimal development. This knowledge also enables nurses to educate parents on what to expect and how to promote their child's development through age-appropriate activities and interactions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Notify the physician immediately and prepare for intubation. This is the priority action because the child is exhibiting signs of epiglottitis, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires urgent intervention to secure the airway and ensure adequate oxygenation. Inspiratory stridor, high fever, drooling, and the classic tripod position of leaning forward are indicative of significant airway obstruction. Option A is incorrect because auscultating the lungs and placing the child in a mist tent would delay crucial interventions for airway management. Option B is incorrect as having the child lie down and encouraging fluids could worsen the airway compromise. Option C is incorrect as examining the throat and performing a throat culture can also delay necessary interventions for airway protection. From an educational standpoint, it's crucial for nurses to recognize the emergent signs and symptoms of conditions like epiglottitis in pediatric patients. Prompt identification and appropriate actions can be life-saving in such critical situations. Understanding the priority of airway management and swift communication with the healthcare team are fundamental principles in pediatric respiratory nursing.