Final answer:
Early signs of DIC after an intrauterine fetal demise include fever, jaundice, and hypotension. Complications can escalate to kidney failure and potentially be fatal. An obstetrician must examine the placenta and fetal membranes post-delivery to prevent further issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) after an intrauterine fetal demise can include symptoms such as fever, jaundice, and hypotension. DIC can lead to complications like kidney failure and potentially be fatal if not recognized and managed promptly. In the context of intrauterine fetal demise, the obstetrician should also examine the expelled placenta and fetal membranes for integrity, as retained placental fragments can cause further complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.
Fetal characteristics such as differences in fetal hemoglobin and the distinct fetal circulation also play crucial roles during pregnancy and in the context of fetal demise.
Upon childbirth, it's important to administer the Apgar test to assess the newborn's immediate health status and to ensure neonatal care if necessary. This highlights the complex interplay between maternal and fetal health, and the critical nature of prompt response to any signs of distress or abnormality to prevent further complications.