Which complication is most likely if meconium is present in the amniotic fluid?

Which complication is most likely if meconium is present in the amniotic fluid?

• A. Primary or secondary apnea
• B. Profound hypoglycemia
• C. Fetal tachycardia and CHF
• D. An infant with a birth defect

Answer: (A)

Meconium in the amniotic fluid signals fetal distress and raises the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome, where the baby may inhale meconium into the lungs. This can block airways and trigger chemical pneumonitis, leading to hypoxia and respiratory depression at birth. The breathing problem often manifests as primary apnea (the newborn doesn’t start breathing spontaneously) or secondary apnea (breathing stops after initial attempts due to ongoing hypoxia). Because this respiratory compromise is the most likely outcome of meconium exposure, apnea is the best answer. Hypoglycemia, fetal tachycardia with heart failure, or a birth defect aren’t directly caused by meconium in the fluid.

Meconium in the amniotic fluid signals fetal distress and raises the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome, where the baby may inhale meconium into the lungs. This can block airways and trigger chemical pneumonitis, leading to hypoxia and respiratory depression at birth. The breathing problem often manifests as primary apnea (the newborn doesn’t start breathing spontaneously) or secondary apnea (breathing stops after initial attempts due to ongoing hypoxia). Because this respiratory compromise is the most likely outcome of meconium exposure, apnea is the best answer. Hypoglycemia, fetal tachycardia with heart failure, or a birth defect aren’t directly caused by meconium in the fluid.