What clinical findings should a respiratory therapist expect in an infant with a Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
I.Breath sounds throughout lung region
II.Apnea
III.Hypotension
IV.Slow venous return
V.Heart sounds heard in anatomically Correct location
VI.Minimal response to positive pressure ventilation
VII.Significant positive response to supplemental oxygen

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) often presents with symptoms that reflect compromised lung function and altered hemodynamics due to the herniation of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity. This can lead to apnea (II) due to respiratory distress, hypotension (III) as a result of poor cardiac output and shock, slow venous return (IV) due to compression of the venous system by the herniated organs, and minimal response to positive pressure ventilation (VI) because the lungs are often hypoplastic and not fully developed, making them less responsive to mechanical ventilation. Breath sounds may be diminished or absent in the affected area (not throughout), heart sounds may be shifted if the heart is displaced by the herniated organs, and the response to supplemental oxygen (VII) can be limited due to the underlying pulmonary pathology and not directly indicative of CDH.

What Clinical Findings Should a Respiratory Therapist Expect in an Infant