The nurse is caring for a preterm neonate who requires mechanical ...

[mpobi80]

The nurse is caring for a preterm neonate who requires mechanical ventilation for treatment of respiratory distress syndrome. Because of the mechanical ventilation, the nurse should recognize an increased risk of what?
 
  a. Pneumothorax
  b. Transient tachypnea
  c. Meconium aspiration
  d. Retractions and nasal flaring

Question 2

What are possible premature infant complications from oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation?
 
  a. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia and retinopathy of prematurity
  b. Anemia and necrotizing enterocolitis
  c. Cerebral palsy and persistent patent ductus arteriosus
  d. Congestive heart failure and cerebral edema

[momolu]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Positive pressure introduced by mechanical apparatus has created an increase in the incidence of ruptured alveoli and subsequent pneumothorax and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Tachypnea may be an indication of a pneumothorax, but it should not be transient. Meconium aspiration is not associated with mechanical ventilation. Retractions and nasal flaring are indications of the use of accessory muscles when the infant cannot obtain sufficient oxygen. The use of mechanical ventilation bypasses the infant's need to use these muscles.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Oxygen therapy, although lifesaving, is not without hazards. The positive pressure created by mechanical ventilation creates an increase in the number of ruptured alveoli and subsequent pneumothorax and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Oxygen therapy puts the infant at risk for retinopathy of prematurity. Anemia, necrotizing enterocolitis, cerebral palsy, persistent patent ductus, congestive heart failure, and cerebral edema are not primarily caused by oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation.