The nurse caring for a woman about to deliver a baby at 33 weeks' gestation knows that what factor ...

ANS: C
A fetus has produced sufficient surfactant for independent respiratory function by about gestational weeks 34 to 36. Hence, a baby born at 33 weeks' gestation is at risk for not having enough surfactant. Factors that can lead to increased surfactant production include mothers with White classification D, F, and R diabetes; maternal hypertension; and maternal heroin addiction. Fetal hemolytic disorders and multiple gestation are risk factors for decreased surfactant production. Incorrect dates may be important, but this is not a factor that leads to increased surfactant production.