Neonates exposed to oxygen for a longer period may lead to?

BCCL kharkhanda Staff Nurse - 2015

Child Health Nursing (Pediatrics)

Easy

Appeared in: BCCL kharkhanda Staff Nurse - 2015

Explanation

Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of oxygen (hyperoxemia) in neonates is a primary cause of Retrolental Fibroplasia, now known as Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP).
Excess oxygen disrupts the normal vascularization of the retina, causing initial vasoconstriction and vessel damage.
This is followed by abnormal proliferation of new blood vessels (neovascularization) that can lead to scarring, retinal detachment, and blindness.
The condition is particularly prevalent in premature infants whose retinal blood vessels are still developing.

Option A: Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which damages the optic nerve. It is not caused by oxygen therapy in neonates but is typically a result of congenital anatomical abnormalities.
Option C: Eye infections in newborns (ophthalmia neonatorum) are caused by pathogens like Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae acquired during passage through an infected birth canal, or other bacteria. It is an infectious process, not a result of oxygen toxicity.
Option D: This option is incorrect because there is a correct answer. Retrolental fibroplasias is a well-documented complication of prolonged oxygen therapy in neonates.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Complications of Oxygen Therapy in Neonates as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A key nursing responsibility in the NICU is the meticulous management of oxygen therapy for premature infants. This includes continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation (SpO2) and titrating the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) to maintain levels within the prescribed target range (e.g., 91-95%).
Over-oxygenation is as dangerous as under-oxygenation. While hypoxia can cause brain damage, hyperoxia can lead to ROP and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).
Nurses must be vigilant for signs of ROP during routine eye exams for at-risk infants and ensure that screening protocols are followed.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core components of the question: the patient population ('Neonates') and the intervention ('exposed to oxygen for a longer period').
The question asks for a potential complication or outcome. This is a cause-and-effect question based on factual knowledge.
Recall the major complications of oxygen toxicity in neonates. The eyes and lungs are particularly vulnerable.
Evaluate each option:
Glaucoma: Relates to eye pressure, not typically caused by oxygen.
Retrolental fibroplasias: This is the historical term for Retinopathy of Prematurity, a known major complication of oxygen therapy in premature infants.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 28-48

E6 Text Book Of Pediatric Nursing 3rd Panchali Pal — Part 1 (pp 36-238 of 713) p. 198-200