You are caring for an infant with RDS. Nasal CPAP has been used; ...

[Tazate]

You are caring for an infant with RDS. Nasal CPAP has been used; however, the infant sudden-ly deteriorates and is demonstrating severe hypoxemia on an FiO2 of 0.60. What should be done next?
 
  a. Increase the CPAP.
  b. Intubate the infant and begin mechanical ventilation.
  c. Switch to nasal CPAP.
  d. Increase the FiO2.

Question 2

What diagnostic parameter is most often used to confirm the diagnosis of RDS?
 
  a. Arterial blood gases
  b. Chest radiograph
  c. Pulmonary function test
  d. Serum enzymes

[tofugiraffe]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Mechanical ventilation with PEEP should be initiated if oxygenation does not improve with CPAP or if the patient is apneic or acidotic.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Definitive diagnosis of RDS usually is made with chest radiography.