Question

If meconium was passed in utero, what action must the nurse take in the delivery room?

a) Suction the meconium from the newborn's nose and mouth
b) Apply pressure to the mother's abdomen to expel the remaining meconium
c) Monitor the mother's blood pressure
d) Begin neonatal resuscitation immediately

Answer 1

If meconium was passed in utero, the nurse must suction the meconium from the newborn's nose and mouth in the delivery room to prevent complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

If meconium was passed in utero, the nurse must suction the meconium from the newborn's nose and mouth in the delivery room. Meconium is the first stool passed by a newborn, and if it is present in the amniotic fluid at birth, it can lead to complications such as meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). MAS occurs when the baby inhales or aspirates meconium into their lungs, which can lead to respiratory distress. Suctioning the meconium helps to clear the airways and prevent further complications.