What should you check if administering Survanta to a newborn?

• A. Heart rate
• B. Respiratory rate
• C. Blood glucose
• D. Oxygen saturation

Answer: (D)

When administering Survanta, which is a surfactant used in the treatment of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial. Surfactant therapy helps to reduce surface tension in the lungs, which aids in alveolar stability and enhances oxygen exchange. Therefore, checking oxygen saturation allows you to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure that the newborn is receiving adequate oxygenation post-administration.

In the context of surfactant administration, maintaining appropriate oxygen levels is vital for the infant's respiratory function, and oxygen saturation provides direct insights into how well the lungs are functioning after the surfactant is given. This monitoring can guide further interventions if oxygen levels are not within a normal range.