A mother is about to deliver a 25 weeks' gestation infant. As the respiratory therapist in the delivery room, what therapeutic intervention should you be prepared to give to minimize the risk of RDS?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Exogenous surfactant is the most effective intervention for minimizing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. It replaces the deficient surfactant that is normally produced by the lungs and helps to prevent alveolar collapse and respiratory failure. Mask CPAP can also be used to support breathing, but it may not be enough to prevent RDS in extremely premature infants. Airway suctioning and mechanical ventilation may be necessary in certain situations, but they are not specific interventions for preventing RDS.

A Mother Is About to Deliver a 25 Weeks' Gestation