Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is at 42 weeks of gestation and in active labor. The nurse should understand that the fetus is at risk for which of the following?

1) A intrauterine growth restriction
2) hyperglycemia
3) meconium aspiration
4) polyhydramnios

Answer 1

The fetus at 42 weeks gestation is primarily at risk for meconium aspiration, which occurs when meconium is passed in utero and potentially inhaled into the lungs, leading to respiratory issues.

Step-by-step explanation:

The fetus of a client who is at 42 weeks of gestation and in active labor is at risk for several complications. However, among the options provided, the risk of meconium aspiration is particularly significant. Meconium is the first stool of a newborn and its presence in the amniotic fluid can indicate fetal distress. If the fetus passes meconium in utero, it is at risk of aspirating meconium into the lungs, especially if the fetus gasps from hypoxia. This can lead to a condition known as meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), which can cause serious respiratory problems.

In Janine's case, being 41 weeks pregnant and experiencing protracted labor without significant cervical dilation, the administration of the IV infusion of pitocin is to induce or augment labor and facilitate delivery. Pitocin, a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin, promotes uterine contractions to progress labor and reduce the risks associated with post-term pregnancies, including the risk of meconium aspiration.

Other options listed such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), hyperglycemia, and polyhydramnios are not specifically associated with being 42 weeks of gestation and in active labor, but rather with other stages of pregnancy or maternal health conditions.