What is the physiologic result of the infants' more compliant thorax compared with that of an adult?
A) It is easier for infants to breathe.
B) Their functional residual capacity is reduced based on predicted body weight (PBW).
C) They breathe larger tidal volumes based on IBW.
D) They have less of a tendency to develop atelectasis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With a more compliant thorax, the resultant balance of these static forces in the infant favors a reduced FRC and total lung capacity (TLC). Proportionately lower lung volumes in the infant can lead to early airway closure, atelectasis, ventilation/perfusion mismatch, shunting, and resultant hypoxemia.

What Is the Physiologic Result of the Infants' More Compliant