Which is the most critical physiologic change required of the newborn?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The onset of breathing is the most immediate and critical physiologic change required for transition to extrauterine life. Factors that interfere with this normal transition increase fetal asphyxia, which is a condition of hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and acidosis. This affects the fetus's adjustment to extrauterine life. Closure of fetal shunts in the heart, stabilization of fluid and electrolytes, and body-temperature maintenance are important changes that must occur in the transition to extrauterine life, but breathing and the exchange of oxygen for carbon dioxide must come first.

Which Is the Most Critical Physiologic Change Required of the Newborn