RNC-MNN Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep for Nurses

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants. It occurs primarily due to insufficient surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs inflated, and is particularly common in infants born before 34 weeks of gestation. The correct answer reflects the significant impact of RDS on this vulnerable population. Research indicates that RDS accounts for a substantial proportion of premature infant deaths, with estimates suggesting that it contributes to 50-70% of these fatalities.

This high percentage underscores the critical need for effective management strategies, such as the administration of surfactant therapy and oxygen support, to improve outcomes for premature infants at risk of RDS. Understanding the prevalence of RDS among premature infants is essential for healthcare providers in maternal nursing and neonatal care, as it highlights the importance of timely interventions and the potential for prevention through antenatal care and monitoring.