Maternity HESI Practice Questions Related

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

  • A. "Surfactant improves the ability of your baby's lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide."
  • B. "The drug keeps your baby from requiring too much sedation."
  • C. "Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea."
  • D. "Your baby needs this medication to fight a possible respiratory tract infection."
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Artificial surfactant can be administered as an adjunct to oxygen and ventilation therapy for premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). It helps improve respiratory compliance by aiding in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide until the infant can produce enough surfactant naturally. The correct explanation to the parents would be that surfactant therapy enhances the baby's lung function by facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Choice B is incorrect because surfactant therapy does not affect sedation needs. Choice C is inaccurate as surfactant is not used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea. Choice D is incorrect as surfactant is not administered to fight respiratory tract infections; it specifically targets improving lung function in RDS.