Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

Fluctuations in blood pressure in preterm infants are particularly concerning because they can lead to significant complications. In this context, the association between blood pressure changes and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is well documented. ROP is a potentially serious eye disorder that can occur in premature infants, primarily related to abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina that can be exacerbated by unstable blood pressure.

When blood pressure is not stable, it can contribute to inconsistent perfusion of the retina, leading to the impaired development of retinal blood vessels. This disorganized vascular growth is a precursor to ROP. Monitoring and managing blood pressure in preterm infants is critical in reducing the risk of developing ROP and its associated complications.

While fluctuations in blood pressure can also be linked to other conditions like hypoxemia, ischemia, or neurological deficits, retinopathy of prematurity is a direct complication that is commonly observed in relation to blood pressure instability in this vulnerable population.