NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which condition indicates a defect occurring during fetal development?

1. Amniotic fluid embolism

2. Diaphragmatic hernia

3. Meconium aspiration syndrome

4. Respiratory distress syndrome

The correct answer is: Diaphragmatic hernia

A diaphragmatic hernia is a congenital defect that occurs during fetal development, specifically involving an abnormal opening in the diaphragm. This defect allows abdominal organs such as the stomach or intestines to move into the chest cavity, affecting lung development and function. During fetal development, the diaphragm plays a crucial role in the separation of the thoracic and abdominal cavities, and any failure in its formation can significantly impact the neonate's respiratory capacity after birth. In contrast, amniotic fluid embolism, meconium aspiration syndrome, and respiratory distress syndrome are conditions that are not primarily caused by developmental defects. Amniotic fluid embolism is an acute obstetric emergency caused by amniotic fluid entering the maternal circulation, while meconium aspiration syndrome occurs when a newborn inhales a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid, which can happen during or after delivery but does not involve a defect that originated during fetal development. Respiratory distress syndrome is typically associated with lung immaturity, often linked to prematurity rather than a congenital defect.