Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

Respiratory distress syndrome, especially in newborns, is primarily caused by surfactan deficiency. This condition results when there is insufficient production of surfactant in the lungs, which is crucial for reducing surface tension within the alveoli, preventing collapse, and facilitating oxygen exchange. The absence or insufficient levels of surfactant leads to the alveoli collapsing, making it difficult for the newborn to breathe and effectively exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.