Which of these signs may indicate that a neonate is experiencing impaired gas exchange?

A neonate experiencing impaired gas exchange may show signs such as cyanosis and grunting. Cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin, particularly in areas such as the lips and extremities, indicating low oxygen levels in the blood. Grunting is an audible sound made during expiration, often as a compensatory mechanism to increase end-expiratory lung volume, which can indicate respiratory distress or an attempt to improve oxygenation. Both signs are critical indicators of respiratory compromise, suggesting that the neonate may not be receiving enough oxygen or is struggling to eliminate carbon dioxide effectively.

In contrast, normal heart rate and blood pressure do not specifically indicate gas exchange adequacy, as these vital signs can remain stable in the presence of underlying respiratory issues. Similarly, reflexive rooting and sucking represent normal neurological function and feeding readiness, not directly related to respiratory status. Steady sleeping patterns are also generally a sign of well-being in a neonate and do not specifically suggest that gas exchange is impaired. Thus, cyanosis and grunting are clear and significant indicators of potential respiratory failure, making this the correct identification of symptoms associated with impaired gas exchange in neonates.