Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What is a common sign of respiratory distress in neonates?

1. Bradycardia

2. Apnea

3. Low oxygen saturation

4. Hypotonia

The correct answer is: Low oxygen saturation

Low oxygen saturation is a common sign of respiratory distress in neonates because it indicates that the body is not receiving enough oxygen. In a healthy newborn, oxygen saturation levels should typically be above 95%. A decrease in these levels often suggests impaired respiratory function, which may be due to conditions like congenital respiratory disorders, infections, or environmental factors affecting breathing. Although bradycardia could be a sign of respiratory distress, it is not as directly indicative of a respiratory issue compared to oxygen saturation levels. Apnea, while also a sign of respiratory distress, is often an intermittent symptom rather than a consistent indicator. Hypotonia, which refers to decreased muscle tone, is more associated with conditions affecting neuromuscular function rather than being a direct sign of respiratory distress. Thus, low oxygen saturation is the most reliable and common sign indicating that a neonate is experiencing respiratory difficulties.