Pediatric HESI 2023 Related

Review Pediatric HESI 2023 related questions and content

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 prevents your baby from requiring excessive sedation.
  • C. Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea.
  • D. Your baby needs this medication to combat a potential respiratory tract infection.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Surfactant therapy is explained to parents as a treatment that enhances the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. This is essential for premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) as it helps improve their respiratory function. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because surfactant therapy primarily focuses on addressing lung function and is not related to sedation, apnea reduction, or fighting respiratory tract infections.