VATI Maternal Newborn Assessment Related

Review VATI Maternal Newborn Assessment related questions and content

The nurse is explaining how a newly delivered baby initiates respiration. Which statement explains this process?

  • A. Chemical thermal and mechanical factors
  • B. Increase of po2 and decreased pco2
  • C. Continued function of foramen ovale
  • D. Drying off the infant
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement explaining how a newly delivered baby initiates respiration is "Chemical thermal and mechanical factors." When a baby is born, various factors come into play to stimulate the baby's first breath. Chemically, the baby senses a decrease in oxygen and an increase in carbon dioxide levels, triggering the respiratory centers in the brain to start the breathing process. Thermally, exposure to the cooler air outside the womb stimulates the baby's skin receptors, encouraging the baby to take a breath. Mechanically, the pressure changes during delivery and the physical stimulation of the baby's face and body also play a role in initiating respiration. Overall, it is the combined effect of these chemical, thermal, and mechanical factors that help a newly delivered baby begin breathing independently.