Final answer:
(C) Restlessness is one of the early signs of respiratory distress in a child, indicating potential breathing difficulties and the need for prompt evaluation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Early signs of respiratory distress in a child include restlessness. This symptom often precedes more severe signs such as cyanosis (bluish skin due to lack of oxygen) and decreased level of consciousness (LOC). Restlessness is an early indicator that the child may not be getting enough oxygen and is, therefore, struggling to breathe. It is vital to note changes in a child's behavior as these can be subtle yet important clues pointing to respiratory distress. On the other hand, bradycardia (slow heart rate) and cyanosis are often later signs of respiratory distress in children.
In the context of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), which primarily affects infants born prematurely, insufficient production of pulmonary surfactant prevents the lungs from properly inflating at birth. As a result, dyspnea (difficulty breathing) and gas exchange problems occur, leading to low oxygen and high carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Recognizing early signs like restlessness can be crucial for early intervention and treatment.