A premature infant with respiratory distress syndrome receives artificial surfactant. How would the nurse explain surfactant therapy to the parents?
A) "Surfactant improves the ability of your baby's lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide."
B) "The drug keeps your baby from requiring too much sedation."
C) "Surfactant is used to reduce episodes of periodic apnea."
D) "Your baby needs this medication to fight a possible respiratory tract infection."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Surfactant therapy is given to premature infants to improve the ability of their lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, which helps alleviate respiratory distress syndrome.

A Premature Infant with Respiratory Distress Syndrome Receives Artificial Surfactant