ATI Nursing Care of Children Related

Review ATI Nursing Care of Children related questions and content

A major reason for the development of respiratory distress syndrome in the preterm infant is:

  • A. Excessive surfactant
  • B. Lack of surfactant
  • C. Immature immune system
  • D. Lack of body fat
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lack of surfactant. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants is primarily due to a lack of surfactant, which is crucial for keeping the lungs inflated. Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli collapse, leading to breathing difficulties. Choice A, Excessive surfactant, is incorrect as RDS is caused by an insufficient amount of surfactant. Choice C, Immature immune system, and Choice D, Lack of body fat, are not directly related to the development of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.