Question

What is the first step taken when a baby born at 44 weeks has stained amniotic fluid?

1) Perform a physical examination of the baby
2) Administer antibiotics to the baby
3) Perform a blood test on the baby
4) Perform a chest X-ray on the baby

Answer 1

The first step for a baby born with stained amniotic fluid is to aspirate the newborn's airways to prevent meconium aspiration syndrome.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first step taken when a baby is born at 44 weeks with stained amniotic fluid, which indicates the presence of meconium, is to aspirate the newborn before the first breath is taken. This is critical to prevent the baby from inhaling meconium-stained amniotic fluid into the lungs, which could lead to a form of pneumonia known as meconium aspiration syndrome. A physical examination, blood tests, chest X-rays, and antibiotic administration may follow, but not before ensuring that the airways are cleared to facilitate the baby's first breath.