Which of the following characteristics of the pediatric respiratory system makes infants and young children more susceptible to respiratory distress compared to adults?
Larger airway diameter and more developed lung volume
Smaller airway diameter and immature respiratory muscles
Larger alveolar surface area and stronger respiratory muscles
More developed diaphragm and increased lung compliance
The Correct Answer is B
A. Infants actually have smaller airway diameters and less lung volume than adults. A larger airway and fully developed lungs would decrease susceptibility to respiratory compromise, not increase it.
B. Infants’ airways are narrow, so even minor swelling or mucus buildup can significantly obstruct airflow. Additionally, respiratory muscles, including the diaphragm and intercostals, are immature and fatigue easily, making it harder for infants to maintain adequate ventilation during illness or stress. These factors increase the risk of rapid respiratory compromise.
C. Infants have fewer alveoli and less surface area for gas exchange, and their respiratory muscles are weaker than adults, not stronger. This contributes to increased risk, not protection.
D. The diaphragm is less developed in infants, and their chest wall is more compliant, which can lead to paradoxical movements and less effective ventilation. Increased diaphragm development and lung compliance would enhance respiratory function, not increase susceptibility.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Developmental milestones follow predictable sequences, but the exact age at which each child reaches them can vary. Expecting all babies to reach milestones at the same age is unrealistic and does not reflect normal variation in growth and development.
B. While gross motor skills like walking often develop alongside fine motor skills, fine motor development does not occur automatically. It requires practice, coordination, and maturation of muscles and nervous system pathways.
C. Genetics play a significant role in growth, influencing height, weight, body proportions, and sometimes developmental timing. Denying the influence of genetics misrepresents a key factor in growth and development.
D. This statement reflects an accurate understanding of developmental principles. Growth and developmental milestones occur in a predictable sequence (cephalocaudal, proximodistal, and simple-to-complex patterns), but the timing can vary for each child. This acknowledges normal individual differences while recognizing typical developmental patterns.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Alveolar collapse (atelectasis) due to surfactant deficiency is typically seen in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, not asthma. Asthma primarily affects the airways, not alveolar surfactant production.
B. In asthma, bronchial smooth muscle constriction occurs, not relaxation. Surfactant production is not a central factor in asthma pathophysiology.
C. These features lead to edema and hyperresponsiveness, contraction of smooth muscle around the bronchi and bronchioles, and mucus accumulation, all contributing to the child’s symptoms.
D. While upper respiratory infections can trigger asthma exacerbations, sinus obstruction itself is not the primary pathophysiologic process in asthma. The key changes occur in the lower airways.
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