A nursery nurse is attending the birth of a post-term infant.

Exhibits

Upon review of the medical record, the infant newborn is at risk for developing which of the following symptoms? Select all that apply

Rationale for Correct Choices

• Meconium aspiration syndrome: The presence of thick green amniotic fluid indicates meconium-stained fluid, which the post-term infant may aspirate during delivery. Meconium aspiration can obstruct the airways, cause chemical pneumonitis, and lead to respiratory distress requiring immediate intervention and supportive care.

• Macrosomia: Post-term infants are at increased risk of macrosomia due to prolonged gestation and continued growth in utero. Macrosomic infants face complications such as difficult labor, shoulder dystocia, and birth injuries, necessitating careful monitoring and potential interventions during delivery.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices

• Intraventricular hemorrhage: This condition is primarily associated with preterm infants due to fragile germinal matrix vasculature. The post-term infant in this scenario is less likely to develop intraventricular hemorrhage.

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia: Chronic lung disease usually develops in preterm infants who have required prolonged mechanical ventilation or oxygen therapy. The term post-term infant is not at high risk for this condition immediately after birth.

Rationale:
A. "Perform Kegel exercises several times daily.": Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder control and reducing stress incontinence episodes. Regular practice is essential for effectiveness.

B. "Take prescribed diuretics no later than 2000.": Limiting evening diuretic use helps reduce nighttime incontinence but does not address stress incontinence, which is triggered by increased intra-abdominal pressure, not fluid timing.

C. "Maintain a daily fluid intake of 1,000 to 1,200 mL/day.": Restricting fluids excessively can lead to concentrated urine and urinary tract irritation. Adequate hydration is important; fluid restriction is not recommended for stress incontinence.

D. "Attempt to void every 2 hours.": Scheduled voiding helps prevent bladder overfilling, reducing leakage episodes and improving bladder control. This is an effective behavioral strategy.

E. "Maintain optimal body weight for height.": Excess weight increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can worsen stress incontinence. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce strain on pelvic floor muscles.