Final answer:
Surfactant works as a detergent in the airways, reducing surface tension and making it easier to inflate them. It is important in pediatric consideration because it is needed for babies born prematurely to prevent respiratory distress syndrome.
Step-by-step explanation:
Surfactant works as a detergent in the airways, reducing the surface tension and making it easier to inflate them. It is important in pediatric consideration because babies born prematurely often do not produce enough surfactant, leading to respiratory distress syndrome. Surfactant also helps prevent the collapse of small air sacs in the lungs.