Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Practice Exam

What is a common sign of respiratory distress in infants?

1. Increased appetite

2. Excessive crying

3. Nasal flaring

4. Decreased activity level

The correct answer is: Nasal flaring

Nasal flaring is a common sign of respiratory distress in infants because it indicates that the infant is struggling to obtain adequate oxygen. It occurs when the nostrils widen during inhalation, which helps to enhance airflow and makes breathing easier. This physiological response can be especially pronounced in infants, who have smaller airways and can exhibit respiratory distress more noticeably due to conditions like bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or exposure to irritants. In contrast, while excessive crying and decreased activity level may reflect discomfort or sadness, these symptoms are not specific indicators of respiratory distress. Increased appetite is typically not associated with respiratory distress, as infants in distress often show signs of decreased feeding due to their inability to coordinate breathing and sucking effectively. Thus, nasal flaring stands out as a key clinical sign indicating that an infant is experiencing difficulty in breathing.