The nurse is assessing a 2-hour-old newborn delivered by cesarean at 38 weeks. The amniotic fluid was clear. His mother had preeclampsia. His respiratory rate is 80; he is grunting and has nasal flaring

Question

What is the most likely cause of this infant's condition?
1. Meconium aspiration syndrome
2. Transient tachypnea of the newborn
3. Respiratory distress syndrome
4. Prematurity of the neonate

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: There was no meconium in the amniotic fluid, which rules out meconium aspiration syndrome.
Rationale 2: The infant is term and born by cesarean. He is most likely experiencing transient tachypnea of the newborn.
Rationale 3: The infant is not premature and therefore is not likely to be experiencing respiratory distress syndrome.
Rationale 4: The infant is not premature. Prematurity alone does not cause respiratory distress; the lack of surfactant causes respiratory distress syndrome.