A newborn is brought to the emergency room for difficulty breathing.The mother of the baby reports constant drooling,coughing,and episodes of cyanosis.What should the therapist suspect this condition is?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Drooling,along with frothing and bubbling at the nose and mouth,are the first symptoms in the majority of newborns with esophageal atresia.The first feedings result in choking,coughing,and episodes of cyanosis.The respiratory distress may be severe and progressive,which should prompt an immediate work-up for esophageal atresia.If esophageal atresia is suspected,a stiff nasogastric tube is introduced until resistance is met.The tube is connected to constant suction and irrigated with 1 to 2 mL of saline at frequent intervals.

A Newborn Is Brought to the Emergency Room for Difficulty