A pregnant woman was admitted for induction of labor at 43 weeks of gestation with sure dates. A nonstress test (NST) in the obstetrician's office revealed a nonreactive tracing. On artificial rupture of membranes, thick, meconium-stained fluid was noted. The nurse caring for the infant after birth should anticipate:
A) Meconium aspiration, hypoglycemia, and dry, cracked skin.
B) Excessive vernix caseosa covering the skin, lethargy, and respiratory distress syndrome.
C) Golden yellow- to green-stained skin and nails, absence of scalp hair, and an increased amount of subcutaneous fat.
D) Hyperglycemia, hyperthermia, and an alert, wide-eyed appearance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The thick, meconium-stained fluid indicates that the fetus has passed meconium in utero, and there is a risk of meconium aspiration at delivery. The nonreactive NST also suggests fetal compromise, which may lead to hypoglycemia after birth. Dry, cracked skin may be a sign of postmaturity, which is often associated with 43 weeks of gestation.

A Pregnant Woman Was Admitted for Induction of Labor at 43