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

[joblessjake]

The nurse is caring for a preterm newborn who requires mechanical ventilation for the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome. The nurse should recognize that, because of the mechanical ventilation, there is an increased risk of:
 
  a. alveolar rupture.
  b. meconium aspiration.
  c. transient tachypnea.
  d. retractions and nasal flaring.

Question 2

A premature newborn requires oxygen and mechanical ventilation. Which complications should the nurse assess for?
 
  a. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, pneumothorax
  b. Anemia, necrotizing enterocolitis
  c. Cerebral palsy, persistent patent ductus
  d. Congestive heart failure, cerebral edema

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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. Meconium aspiration is not associated with mechanical ventilation. Tachypnea may be an indication of a pneumothorax, but it would not be transient. Retractions and nasal flaring are indications of the use of accessory muscles when the newborn cannot obtain sufficient oxygen. The use of mechanical ventilation bypasses the newborn'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. Anemia, necrotizing enterocolitis, cerebral palsy, persistent patent ductus, congestive heart failure, and cerebral edema are complications not primarily due to oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation.