A premature infant weighing 1 lb, 10 oz and 1 week old begins exhibiting reduced oxygen saturation levels, bradycardia, and cyanosis. The infant’s respirations are being maintained with mechanical ventilation. Increased oxygen concentration is required to maintain oxygen saturation levels at 90%. The chest radiograph reveals IRDS as resolving. The echocardiogram indicates a PDA.

Explain the two treatment options, drug therapy, or a surgical procedure used to close the PDA.

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

Drug therapy for PDA If the PDA does not close on its own or it is large enough to be causing circulation complications drug therapy may be used to en... View the full answer