Fundamentals of Nursing HESI Related

Review Fundamentals of Nursing HESI related questions and content

In planning care for a premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome, nursing actions are based on the fact that the most likely cause of this problem stems from the infant's inability to

  • A. Stabilize alveolar surface tension
  • B. Maintain alveolar surface tension
  • C. Promote normal pulmonary blood flow
  • D. Regulate intra-cardiac pressure
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintain alveolar surface tension. Respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants is often caused by a deficiency in surfactant, a substance that helps maintain alveolar surface tension. Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli collapse, making it difficult for the infant to oxygenate effectively. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because stabilizing alveolar surface tension is not the issue, promoting normal pulmonary blood flow and regulating intra-cardiac pressure are not directly related to the pathophysiology of respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants.