In: Nursing
what is the causes,signs and symptoms,diagnosis and management of respiratory distress syndrome in neonate
Causes:The disease is mainly caused by a lack of a slippery substance in the lungs called surfactant. This substance helps the lungs fill with air and keeps the air sacs from deflating. Surfactant is present when the lungs are fully developed. Neonatal RDS can also be due to genetic problems with lung development.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis:The tests include: Chest X-ray to show whether a newborn has signs of RDS. A chest X-ray also can detect problems, such as a collapsed lung, that may require urgent treatment. Blood tests to see whether a newborn has enough oxygen in the blood.
Management:Treatments for RDS include surfactant replacement therapy, breathing support from a ventilator or nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) machine, or other supportive treatments. Most newborns who show signs of RDS are quickly moved to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)