Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

Why is it important to improve lung compliance in neonates receiving non-invasive respiratory support?

1. To decrease work of breathing (WOB)

2. To minimize abdominal distention

3. To facilitate stress-free breathing

4. To avoid the need for mechanical ventilation

The correct answer is: To decrease work of breathing (WOB)

Improving lung compliance in neonates receiving non-invasive respiratory support is crucial as it significantly impacts the work of breathing (WOB). When lung compliance is enhanced, the lungs can expand more easily during inhalation, requiring less muscular effort from the neonate. This reduction in WOB is particularly vital for neonates because they often have immature respiratory muscles and can quickly become fatigued. If breathing requires too much effort, it can lead to respiratory distress, decreased oxygenation, and an increased risk of complications. While the other reasons for supporting lung compliance are valid concerns in neonatal care, their direct connection to improving work of breathing solidifies option A as the most pertinent. For example, while minimizing abdominal distention may relieve pressure on the diaphragm and thus assist breathing indirectly, it does not specifically address lung mechanics. Similarly, facilitating stress-free breathing and avoiding mechanical ventilation are important goals in neonatal care, but they are outcomes that result from decreasing the work of breathing. Thus, the direct relationship between improved lung compliance and reduced work of breathing underscores its importance in non-invasive respiratory support for neonates.