THE NORMAL BABY NOTES.
Physiological adjustment of the neonate
1
, RESPIRATION
Initiation and Maintenance of Respirations
• Lung Development- as a
baby nears birth, lung
fluid begins to move to
interstitial space.
• Production of Surfactant
by 34-36 weeks keeps
alveoli of lungs from
collapsing when
exhalation occurs
, Factors that initiate and maintain
Respirations
• Factors that initiate Respirations:
– Chemical Factors- in O2 and in CO2 causes
impulses to stimulate the respiratory center in the
medulla of the brain.
– Thermal Factors- abrupt temperature change
sends impulses to brain
– Mechanical Factors- fetal chest is compressed
during birth, forcing fluid out.
• Factors that maintain respirations:
– Surfactant
– functional residual capacity
, • Rate: 30-60b/min, with a period of apnea
between 10-15 seconds.
• Babies are obligatory nose breathers.
October 20, 2025 4
Physiological adjustment of the neonate
1
, RESPIRATION
Initiation and Maintenance of Respirations
• Lung Development- as a
baby nears birth, lung
fluid begins to move to
interstitial space.
• Production of Surfactant
by 34-36 weeks keeps
alveoli of lungs from
collapsing when
exhalation occurs
, Factors that initiate and maintain
Respirations
• Factors that initiate Respirations:
– Chemical Factors- in O2 and in CO2 causes
impulses to stimulate the respiratory center in the
medulla of the brain.
– Thermal Factors- abrupt temperature change
sends impulses to brain
– Mechanical Factors- fetal chest is compressed
during birth, forcing fluid out.
• Factors that maintain respirations:
– Surfactant
– functional residual capacity
, • Rate: 30-60b/min, with a period of apnea
between 10-15 seconds.
• Babies are obligatory nose breathers.
October 20, 2025 4
