An infant was born 10 weeks premature and requires mechanical ventilation. Two months later the infant presents with hypoxemia and hypercapnia. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis the nurse will observe documented on the chart?

Here are some alterations in pulmonary function in children: Lung growth: An infant's lung has around 20 million terminal alveolar sacs at birth, but by age eight it has 300 million, which is the number of mature alveoli found in an adult's lung. Airway infections: Infections of the airway during this vulnerable stage can impair normal anatomic development, which may explain some long-term effects on pulmonary function. Postural alterations: Children who breathe through their mouths have postural alterations that increase with age, and reduced spirometry values. Air pollutants: Children... Show more

Here are some alterations in pulmonary function in children:
Lung growth: An infant's lung has around 20 million terminal alveolar sacs at birth, but by age eight it has 300 million, which is the number of mature alveoli found in an adult's lung.
Airway infections: Infections of the airway during this vulnerable stage can impair normal anatomic development, which may explain some long-term effects on pulmonary function.
Postural alterations: Children who breathe through their mouths have postural alterations that increase with age, and reduced spirometry values.
Air pollutants: Children have a higher ventilation rate and spend more time outdoors than adults, making them more prone to respiratory problems caused by air pollutants.
COVID-19: Functional lung alterations are present in children and adolescents. 

Related Test: Pathophysiology Practice Test: Alterations of Pulmonary Function

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