Final answer:
The RT should expect to see findings such as pulmonary congestion, underinflation of the lungs, and signs of hyperinflation in the chest X-ray of an infant with transient tachypnea of the newborn. The chest X-ray findings help support the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of respiratory distress in newborns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The RT should expect to see certain findings in the chest X-ray of an infant with transient tachypnea of the newborn. One of the most common findings is pulmonary congestion or a 'shadow' in the lung, which indicates the buildup of fluid or mucus in the lungs. This can be seen as opacities on the X-ray. Additionally, the RT may also observe signs of underinflation of the lungs, such as decreased lung expansion or a decreased number of air-filled spaces (alveoli). This can result in a more opaque appearance in some areas of the lung.
Finally, the X-ray may show signs of hyperinflation, which is when the lungs become overinflated due to an increase in air trapped in the alveoli. This can be seen as an increased transparency in some areas of the lung. It's important to note that while TTN can be associated with these radiographic findings, the diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation, respiratory distress shortly after birth, and improvement within the first 24-72 hours of life. The chest X-ray findings help support the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of respiratory distress in newborns. The respiratory therapist should work closely with the healthcare team to interpret and understand the imaging findings in the context of the infant's clinical condition.