Which of the following can be a cause of apnea in neonates?

Prematurity is a well-known risk factor for apnea in neonates. This condition is characterized by episodes of interrupted breathing that can last for more than 20 seconds or be associated with bradycardia or oxygen desaturation. Infants born prematurely, particularly those under 28 weeks of gestation, often have immature respiratory system development, including underdeveloped respiratory control centers in the brain. This immaturity can result in irregularities in breathing patterns, leading to apnea.

Neonates who are premature may also have other contributing factors such as respiratory distress syndrome or insufficient surfactant production, which can exacerbate the incidence of apnea. Understanding the association between prematurity and apnea is critical for nursing care, as it guides monitoring and intervention strategies in the NICU setting.