Question

At birth, an infant born at 30 weeks gestation is noted to have an abdomen with a hollowed appearance. Which of the following conditions should thr RT suspect?

Answer 1

A newborn with a hollowed abdomen born at 30 weeks gestation may have intrauterine growth restriction or organ underdevelopment, and would likely require medical intervention such as respiratory support.

Step-by-step explanation:

Observing a newborn with a hollowed abdomen suggests potential intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or nutritional issues. If an infant is born prematurely, typically before 30 weeks of gestation, they are at risk of having underdeveloped organs, including the respiratory and digestive systems. Considering this child's premature status and the provided reference to inadequate amniotic fluid potentially leading to hypoplastic lungs or other developmental complications, a hollowed abdomen could be indicative of nutritional deficiencies or underdevelopment of abdominal organs.

Furthermore, assessing for possible complications like umbilical hernias, which are more common in preterm infants, or other congenital abnormalities, would be prudent. Medical intervention, including respiratory support with surfactant therapy and monitoring for further developmental issues, would likely be necessary for an infant of this gestational age.