Which of the following statements correctly describes the risk factors for premature infants?

Study for the NOLS Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT) Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam confidently!

Premature infants, or preterm infants, are born before 37 weeks of gestation, which can result in several health challenges due to their early arrival. One significant risk factor for these infants is their increased susceptibility to respiratory difficulties. This vulnerability arises because their lungs may not be fully developed, which can lead to conditions such as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). This condition is characterized by inadequate surfactant in the lungs, making breathing challenges more prevalent in these infants.

In contrast, the other statements do not accurately portray the risks associated with premature infants. For instance, their reflex responses are typically not delayed in a general sense, but rather may not be fully matured, affecting their ability to feed and regulate body temperature. Moreover, premature infants usually have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections instead of having stronger immune systems. Lastly, they do require additional warmth due to their smaller body mass and lack of insulating fat, which can lead to challenges in maintaining their body temperature.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy