ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Latest Update Related

Review ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Latest Update related questions and content

A postterm infant is delivered by cesarean section because of fetal distress and meconium-stained amniotic fluid. The nursery nurse frequently monitors the baby's respiratory rate, observing for tachypnea. Which is the reason for the nurse's actions? The infant may:

  • A. experience respiratory depression from the medications used during delivery
  • B. develop meconium aspiration pneumonia
  • C. have an elevated temperature
  • D. have a pneumothorax related to delivery
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: develop meconium aspiration pneumonia. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid can lead to the infant inhaling meconium, which can cause blockage and inflammation in the airways, leading to meconium aspiration pneumonia. This can result in respiratory distress, tachypnea, and potential complications like respiratory failure. The nurse monitors the respiratory rate to detect any signs of respiratory distress early on.

Incorrect choices:
A: Respiratory depression from medications used during delivery is less likely to be the cause of tachypnea in this scenario.
C: Elevated temperature is not directly related to meconium aspiration pneumonia or respiratory distress in this case.
D: A pneumothorax related to delivery is possible but less likely than meconium aspiration pneumonia as the cause of tachypnea in this case.