Why do infants and young children quickly have respiratory distress in acute and chronic alterations of the respiratory system?
A) They have a widened, shorter airway.
B) There is a defect in their sucking ability.
C) The gag reflex increases mucous production.
D) Mucus and edema obstruct small airways.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The airway in infants and young children is narrow,and respiratory distress can occur quickly because mucus and edema can cause obstruction to their small airways.Sucking is not necessarily related to problems with the airway.The gag reflex is necessary to prevent aspiration.It does not produce mucus.

Why Do Infants and Young Children Quickly Have Respiratory Distress