Final answer:
Amnioinfusion can decrease repetitive variable decelerations caused by umbilical cord compression in cases of thick meconium at delivery. It dilutes the meconium-laden amniotic fluid but does not ensure the prevention of meconium aspiration syndrome, which can cause serious neonatal complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
A 24-year-old G2P1 at 42 weeks gestation presents in early labor with thick meconium noted at amniotomy. The most accurate statement regarding the benefits of amnioinfusion in such cases is that it decreases repetitive variable decelerations (C). Amnioinfusion can dilute meconium-laden amniotic fluid, which might reduce the severity of variable decelerations caused by umbilical cord compression.
Thick meconium at birth can lead to meconium aspiration syndrome, where meconium is inhaled into the lungs, causing potential obstruction of the airways, alveolar collapse, and interference with surfactant function. This can result in complications such as pulmonary inflammation or hypertension, and increased susceptibility to infections like pneumonia. Although amnioinfusion cannot guarantee the prevention of meconium aspiration, it does contribute to a decrease in the mechanical problems related to umbilical cord compression, thus potentially reducing the number of decelerations.