Transient tachypnea of the newborn is typically associated with delayed clearance of fetal lung fluid.

• A. Delayed removal of fetal lung fluid
• B. Pneumothorax
• C. Low birth weight
• D. Hyperglycemia

Answer: (A)

Transient tachypnea of the newborn occurs when fetal lung fluid isn’t cleared promptly after birth. That retained fluid in the airways and interstitium causes tachypnea and mild respiratory distress, which typically improves within 24–72 hours. The scenario aligns with TTN because delayed removal of fetal lung fluid is the defining mechanism.

Pneumothorax would produce sudden distress with abnormal breath sounds and signs of air in the pleural space, not just delayed fluid clearance. Low birth weight is more tied to surfactant deficiency and conditions like respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants. Hyperglycemia is a metabolic issue and does not explain the newborn’s respiratory pattern.