Question

The respiratory therapist is attending the delivery of an infant with an estimated gestational age of 42 weeks. Upon presentation, the infant is covered with thick green fluid. Immediately following birth, which of the following should the RT do first?

a) Suction the mouth and nose
b) Administer surfactant
c) Begin positive pressure ventilation
d) Check the heart rate

Answer 1

The respiratory therapist should first suction the mouth and nose to clear the airway of meconium, which is present due to fetal distress in this case.

Step-by-step explanation:

Upon presentation, the infant is covered with thick green fluid, which indicates the presence of meconium, a sign of fetal distress. In this case, the respiratory therapist should first suction the mouth and nose to remove the meconium and ensure that the airway is clear for breathing. Meconium aspiration can lead to respiratory complications and obstruct the airways, so it is crucial to address this issue immediately. Once the airway is clear, the RT can move on to other interventions such as checking the heart rate, administering surfactant, and beginning positive pressure ventilation if necessary.