A pregnant woman was admitted for induction of labor at 43 weeks of gestation with sure dates. A nonstress test (NST) in the obstetrician's office revealed a nonreactive tracing. On artificial rupture of membranes, thick meconium-stained fluid was noted. What should the nurse caring for the infant after birth anticipate?

Choice A reason: Increased risk of anemia is not a likely cause of respiratory distress in a term macrosomic newborn, as it can affect any newborn regardless of the maternal diabetes status or the fetal size. Anemia can cause pallor, tachycardia, and poor feeding, but not respiratory distress.

Choice B reason: Hyperinsulinemia is a likely cause of respiratory distress in a term macrosomic newborn, as it results from the fetal exposure to high maternal glucose levels and the subsequent overproduction of insulin. Hyperinsulinemia can impair the synthesis of surfactant, which is a substance that prevents the alveoli from collapsing and facilitates gas exchange. Hyperinsulinemia can also cause hypoglycemia, which can affect the respiratory center and cause apnea.

Choice C reason: Increased blood viscosity is not a likely cause of respiratory distress in a term macrosomic newborn, as it can affect any newborn with polycythemia, which is an abnormally high number of red blood cells. Polycythemia can cause cyanosis, jaundice, and thrombosis, but not respiratory distress.

Choice D reason: Brachial plexus injury is not a likely cause of respiratory distress in a term macrosomic newborn, as it affects the nerves that supply the arm and hand, not the lungs. Brachial plexus injury can occur due to the excessive traction or stretching of the shoulder during delivery, and can cause weakness, paralysis, or sensory loss in the affected arm.

Choice A reason: Increased subcutaneous fat is not a typical finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because it is more characteristic of a term or preterm newborn. A postterm newborn tends to have less subcutaneous fat, and may appear thin and wasted.

Choice B reason: Dry, cracked skin is a common finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because the skin has been exposed to the amniotic fluid for a prolonged period. The skin may also appear peeling, wrinkled, or leathery.

Choice C reason: Scant scalp hair is not a usual finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because it is more characteristic of a preterm newborn. A postterm newborn tends to have more scalp hair, and may also have long nails and abundant lanugo.

Choice D reason: Copious vernix is not a specific finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because it is more characteristic of a term or preterm newborn. A postterm newborn tends to have little or no vernix, which is a white, cheesy substance that protects the skin in utero.