The nurse is assessing a 2-hour-old newborn delivered by cesarean at 38 weeks. The amniotic fluid was clear. His mother had preeclampsia. His respiratory rate is 80; he is grunting and has nasal flaring. What is the most likely cause of this infant's condition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of grunting and nasal flaring suggest Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN), which is common in infants born by C-section delivery, especially if the mother had a condition like preeclampsia. TTN occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of lung fluid in the alveoli, causing respiratory distress. It usually resolves on its own within 24-48 hours. Meconium aspiration syndrome can occur when a baby passes stool in utero and inhales it during delivery, leading to respiratory distress. Respiratory distress syndrome is seen more commonly in premature infants, though it can also occur in full-term babies. Prematurity can cause respiratory distress due to immature lungs, but this infant was born at 38 weeks, which is considered full-term.

The Nurse Is Assessing a 2-Hour-Old Newborn Delivered by Cesarean