Final answer:
Infants' respirations are assessed by observing diaphragmatic or intercostal breathing patterns. Diaphragmatic breathing involves the diaphragm, while costal breathing involves the intercostal muscles. These assessments are important in the diagnosis of conditions like Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) and meconium aspiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Respirations in infants can be assessed by observing diaphragmatic or intercostal breathing patterns. A deep breath, known as diaphragmatic breathing, involves the contraction of the diaphragm. As it relaxes, air passively leaves the lungs. Conversely, a shallow breath, referred to as costal breathing, entails the contraction of the intercostal muscles. The relaxation of these muscles also results in air passively leaving the lungs.
It is important to be aware of certain conditions such as Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), common in premature infants, which is characterized by insufficient pulmonary surfactant production, making it difficult for the lungs to inflate properly. This condition can lead to low oxygen levels and high carbon dioxide levels, impacting an infant's breathing patterns.
Observing an infant's respiratory effort can provide crucial information for assessments like the Apgar score and can also indicate potential issues such as meconium aspiration, which can be identified by a coarse rattling sound through a stethoscope and confirmed by blood gas tests and chest X-rays.