Final answer:
Premature babies may need resuscitation due to immature lungs lacking pulmonary surfactant, leading to difficulty in breathing and potential development of RDS. Their thin tissues, fragile brain capillaries, and greater risk of infection also contribute to the need for medical intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Premature babies are at increased risk for needing resuscitation measures for several reasons. Immature lungs are a significant factor; they often lack sufficient pulmonary surfactant, which is critical in reducing the surface tension in the alveoli to allow them to remain open for proper gas exchange. This deficiency makes ventilation difficult and can lead to respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), where infants may struggle with oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal, leading to hypoxia and acidosis. In addition, premature babies have thin tissues, including fragile brain capillaries that may bleed easily, are more prone to oxygen injury, and have a higher likelihood of infection due to an underdeveloped immune system.
Medical interventions may include resuscitation, intubation, or the use of a ventilator, along with measures like administering supplemental oxygen and exogenous pulmonary surfactant.