Perinatal Adaptation of the Baby

Question 1

What are the 3 shunts of foetal circulation?

Answer 1

Ductus venosus
Foramen ovale
Ductus arteriosus

Question 2

How does blood cross the septum between the two atria of the foetal heart?

Answer 2

From the right atrium to the left atrium via the foramen ovale.

Question 3

What does the ductus arteriosus connect?

Answer 3

The pulmonary artery to the aorta.

Question 4

What state are the foetal lungs in during pregnancy?

Answer 4

They are collapsed and fluid-filled.

Causes high resistance.

Question 5

What types of cells are responsible for the production of pulmonary surfactant?

Answer 5

Type 2 pneumocytes

Question 6

What does the foramen ovale close?

Answer 6

At the point of birth.

Question 7

In the womb, where is the site of haematopoiesis within the foetus?

Answer 7

The liver, this role is moved to bone marrow at the point of birth.

Question 8

Is jaundice normal at birth?

Answer 8

Yes, it can be physiological at birth.

Question 9

What can cause persistent pulmonary hypertension in a newborn?

Answer 9

Lack of transfiguration to the post-natal circulation.

Question 10

What is a common complication of a C-section seen in babies?

Answer 10

Transient tachypnoea

Caused by the baby not being ready for the world.
Manage with oxygen/ C-PAP for a few days.