For a 34-week gestational age infant showing signs of respiratory distress, which therapy is most beneficial?

• A. Echocardiography
• B. Aerosolized bronchodilator therapy
• C. Surfactant therapy
• D. Transillumination

Answer: (C)

Surfactant therapy is the most beneficial treatment for a 34-week gestational age infant exhibiting signs of respiratory distress, primarily because this condition often arises from surfactant deficiency. In preterm infants, especially those born before 34 weeks, the lungs may not produce enough surfactant, a substance essential for reducing surface tension in the alveoli and preventing their collapse at the end of expiration. This deficiency leads to respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), characterized by impaired gas exchange and the increased work of breathing.

By administering exogenous surfactant, the therapy directly addresses the underlying cause of RDS, enhancing lung function, improving oxygenation, and reducing the risk of further complications such as atelectasis (lung collapse) and respiratory failure. This treatment has been shown to significantly reduce morbidity and mortality in preterm infants with RDS, making it the most effective and beneficial choice in this scenario.

Other therapies, while important in different contexts, do not directly target the primary issue associated with respiratory distress in this age group. For example, echocardiography is more useful for evaluating cardiac issues rather than primarily addressing respiratory problems. Aerosolized bronchodilator therapy may benefit certain obstructive lung conditions but is not effective for treating surfact