Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

In a premature infant, what is a likely cause for a decreased respiratory rate accompanied by an increased heart rate?

1. Dehydration

2. Hypoxemia

3. Infection

4. Hyperventilation

The correct answer is: Hypoxemia

In a premature infant, hypoxemia is a likely cause for a decreased respiratory rate paired with an increased heart rate. Hypoxemia refers to low levels of oxygen in the blood, which can trigger compensatory mechanisms in the body. When oxygen levels drop, the body may respond by altering respiratory patterns. Specifically, a decreased respiratory rate can occur as the infant attempts to conserve energy and avoid further respiratory distress. At the same time, the heart rate increases (tachycardia) as the body seeks to maintain adequate oxygen delivery to vital organs despite the low oxygen levels. This increase in heart rate acts as a compensatory mechanism to ensure that oxygen-rich blood can be pumped more efficiently, even if the respiratory function is temporarily diminished. Understanding these physiological responses is crucial in managing premature infants, as they are particularly vulnerable to changes in oxygenation and their responses can inform appropriate interventions.