What developmental disorder is respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) primarily associated with?

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), commonly seen in premature infants, is primarily due to an inadequate amount of surface-active material, specifically surfactant. Surfactant is a substance composed of lipids and proteins that lines the alveoli in the lungs, reducing surface tension and preventing the alveoli from collapsing during exhalation.

In infants who are born prematurely, the lungs may not have matured sufficiently to produce adequate amounts of surfactant, leading to difficulties in breathing and inadequate gas exchange. This deficiency causes the alveoli to collapse, resulting in respiratory distress. It is critical for nurses and healthcare providers to recognize this relationship in order to implement early interventions, such as the administration of exogenous surfactant, to improve lung function and outcomes for these vulnerable infants.

Understanding this pathophysiology is essential for effective management of RDS and to minimize morbidity and mortality associated with this condition in the NICU setting.