Question

The nurse is caring for a 35 week gestation infant delivered by cesarean section 2 hours ago. the nurse observes the infants respiratory rate is 72 breaths minute with nasal flaring, grunting, and retractions. the nurse should recognize these finding indicate which complication?

A) Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
B) Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN)
C) Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS)
D) Neonatal sepsis

Answer 1

The nurse should recognize the infant's high respiratory rate and symptoms as Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN), typically presented in infants born by cesarean section and manifesting within the first few hours after birth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should recognize these findings indicate Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN), which is a respiratory disorder seen shortly after delivery in infants, particularly those born by cesarean section. TTN occurs due to retained fetal lung fluid leading to fast breathing (tachypnea), usually with a rate over 60 breaths per minute. The symptoms, including rapid respiratory rate with nasal flaring, grunting, and retractions, typically present within the first few hours post-delivery, as described in the scenario of the 35-week gestation infant.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), on the other hand, is more common in infants born before 32 weeks gestation and is because of insufficient production of pulmonary surfactant. An infant with RDS may also present with similar respiratory distress; however, the history of the infant and timing of the symptoms are key factors in distinguishing TTN from RDS.