The labor and delivery nurse understands that some neonates spontaneously take a breath once the head and chest is delivered. Which understanding does the nurse have for the neonate that requires chemical stimuli to breathe?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mild hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and decreased pH (acidic conditions) stimulate the respiratory center in the brain, which triggers the reflex to take a breath. This is known as the chemical stimuli for breathing in neonates. Oxygen administration, carbon dioxide administration, and suctioning are not typically used as chemical stimuli for breathing in neonates.

The Labor and Delivery Nurse Understands That Some Neonates Spontaneously