The labor and delivery nurse understands that some neonates spontaneously take a breath once the head and chest is delivered. Which understanding does the nurse have for the neonate that requires chemical stimuli to breathe?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: Mild hypoxia and decreased pH stimulate the brain to initiate breathing in neonates.
Step 2: This chemical stimuli trigger the respiratory centers in the brainstem.
Step 3: Oxygen administration may not be necessary as the neonate's own respiratory drive is initiated by chemical stimuli.
Step 4: Carbon dioxide administration is not needed as high levels can be harmful.
Step 5: Suctioning is not used to stimulate breathing but to clear airways if necessary.
Summary: Choice C is correct as it aligns with the physiological response of neonates to chemical stimuli for breathing, while the other choices are not relevant or could be potentially harmful.