pediatrics
Overview of Perinatal Respiratory Disorders
Evaluation of Perinatal Respiratory Disorders
Evaluation of neonatal respiratory distress starts with a thorough history and physical examination. History in the neonate focuses on maternal and prenatal history, particularly Gestational Age , Physical examination focuses on the heart and lungs. Chest wall asymmetry or sunken abdomen suggests Diaphragmatic Hernia . Diffuse crackles, decreased air entry, or grunting suggests poor alveolar expansion as occurs in surfactant deficiency. Asymmetric breath sounds suggest pneumothorax or In both neonates and infants, it is important to assess oxygenation and response to oxygen therapy by pulse oximetry or blood gases. Chest x-ray also is recommended. 