A nurse who works in a neonatal intensive care unit is providing care for an infant born at 26 weeks' gestation. Which of the following assessments would lead the nurse to suspect that the infant has developed respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)?
A) The infant's blood pressure and temperature are normal measurements as expected.
B) Infant is grunting and has notable intercostal retractions with respirations.
C) Infant has poor motor skills and limited limb range of motion.
D) Infant has apnea lasting 5 to 10 seconds with a decrease in heart rate, which reverses with tactile stimulation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While premature birth is associated with numerous potential health problems, including variations in vital signs, impaired motor function, and neurological deficits, the most common complications of prematurity involve respiratory function.

A Nurse Who Works in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit