Respiratory Distress syndrome

Question 1

cause of RDS

Answer 1

lack of surfactant in premature babies (secreted 30/32-40 weeks)

Question 2

what does a lack of surfactant cause?

Answer 2

atelectasis (lung collapse)

impaired gas exchange

Question 3

presentation of RDS

Answer 3

• tachypnoea
• grunting
• cyanosis (severe)

Question 4

diagnosis of RDS

Answer 4

• CXR (ground-glass appearance)
• reduced air entry
• ABG (reduced pO2)

Question 5

management of RDS

Answer 5

• oxygen