A Newborn Has Alveolar Collapse, Decreased Lung Expansion, Increased Work

Multiple Choice

A newborn has alveolar collapse, decreased lung expansion, increased work of breathing, and severe gas-exchange abnormalities and the student asks the healthcare professional for an explanation of what is happening. What response by the professional is best?

A) A decrease in lung compliance from the trauma of a long childbirth process
B) A traumatic pneumothorax from a prolonged and difficult labor
C) Damage done to the alveoli from exposure to supplemental oxygen at birth
D) Lack of surfactant leading to increased alveolar surface tension and fluid collection