Final answer:
When meconium-stained amniotic fluid is observed, the nurse should prepare for the complication of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
When meconium-stained amniotic fluid is observed, a nurse should prepare for the complication of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Aspiration of meconium can lead to several issues including labored breathing, a barrel-shaped chest, or a low Apgar score indicating stress. In addition, the inhalation of meconium after birth can obstruct a newborn's airways, lead to alveolar collapse, interfere with surfactant function, and potentially cause pulmonary inflammation or hypertension. These complications significantly increase the risk for pulmonary infections, including pneumonia.
If a baby is born prematurely before type II cells produce sufficient pulmonary surfactant, difficulty inflating the lungs is expected. Without adequate surfactant, the lungs cannot inflate properly, which leads to Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Meconium aspiration further complicates this scenario by affecting the already limited function of the immature lungs. Although meconium is sterile, it can increase vulnerability to bacterial infections, including neonatal sepsis.
Hence, the correct option for the nurse to prepare for with respect to meconium-stained amniotic fluid is a) Respiratory distress syndrome.