A pregnant woman at 37 weeks of gestation has had ruptured membranes for 26 hours. A cesarean section is performed for failure to progress. The fetal heart rate (FHR) before birth is 180 beats per minute with limited variability. At birth, the newborn has Apgar scores of 6 and 7 at 1 and 5 minutes and is noted to be pale and tachypneic. Based on the maternal history, what is the most likely cause of this newborn's distress?

Choice A reason: "I know I am at increased risk to develop type 2 diabetes." is a correct statement, because it indicates that the client understands the long-term implications of gestational diabetes. The client should be aware that gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, and that she should have regular screening and follow-up.

Choice B reason: "I will take my glyburide daily with breakfast." is a correct statement, because it indicates that the client understands the medication regimen for gestational diabetes. The client should take glyburide, a sulfonylurea that lowers blood glucose levels, as prescribed by the provider, and monitor her blood glucose levels before and after meals.

Choice C reason: "I will reduce my exercise schedule to 3 days a week." is an incorrect statement, because it indicates that the client does not understand the importance of physical activity for gestational diabetes. The client should exercise at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, unless contraindicated by the provider. Exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose levels, and prevent excessive weight gain.

Choice D reason: "I should limit my carbohydrates to 50% of caloric intake." is a correct statement, because it indicates that the client understands the dietary guidelines for gestational diabetes. The client should consume a balanced diet that provides adequate but not excessive amounts of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, and that is consistent in carbohydrate intake throughout the day.

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as surfactant is not an antibiotic and does not treat infections. Surfactant is a substance that is naturally produced by the lungs to reduce the surface tension and prevent the alveoli from collapsing. Premature infants may have insufficient surfactant, which can cause RDS.

Choice B reason: This statement is partially true, as surfactant can help reduce episodes of periodic apnea, which is a condition where the newborn stops breathing for more than 20 seconds. However, this is not the main purpose of surfactant therapy, and other interventions, such as oxygen, ventilation, and caffeine, may be needed to treat apnea.

Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as surfactant improves the ability of the baby's lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, which are essential for life. Surfactant therapy can improve the lung function, reduce the need for mechanical ventilation, and prevent complications, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia and pulmonary hemorrhage.

Choice D reason: This statement is false, as surfactant does not affect the level of sedation in the newborn. Surfactant is administered through an endotracheal tube, which may require sedation to reduce discomfort and agitation. The nurse should monitor the newborn's vital signs, oxygen saturation, and pain level during and after the procedure.