Dexamethasone is a potent steroid used to assist with which process in premature infants?

• A. A diuretic agent
• B. A hormone used to promote growth
• C. An anti-inflammatory used in treating infections
• D. A potent steroid used to assist with ventilator weaning of premature infants

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that dexamethasone helps premature lungs mature so they can be extubated sooner. As a potent corticosteroid, it promotes lung maturation by increasing surfactant production and advancing the development of the tiny air sacs (alveoli), which improves lung compliance and gas exchange. This makes it easier for the infant to be weaned from mechanical ventilation. While steroids have anti-inflammatory effects, the goal in this context is to accelerate lung maturity to enable ventilator weaning, not to treat infection. It’s not a diuretic or a growth-promoting hormone.