During a respiratory assessment of an infant with respiratory distress syndrome, a sinking in the supraclavicular and intercostal areas of the thorax was noted with inspiration. This observation is called:
A) grunting.
B) tachypnea
C) retractions.
D) nasal flaring.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Supraclavicular and intercostal retractions are a sign of increased work of breathing and difficulty moving air into the lungs. This can be seen in infants with respiratory distress syndrome who require extra effort to breathe due to underdeveloped lungs. Grunting is a sound made by the infant during exhalation to try and increase the pressure in the lungs, tachypnea is rapid breathing, and nasal flaring can indicate nasal congestion or increased effort to breathe. However, these choices do not accurately describe the sinking in the supraclavicular and intercostal areas seen in this infant.

During a Respiratory Assessment of an Infant with Respiratory Distress