Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam

What should be done if meconium is present in the amniotic fluid and the infant is depressed at birth?

1. Introduce supplemental oxygen

2. Intubate and suction below the vocal cords

3. Administer immediate resuscitation

4. Observe without intervention

The correct answer is: Intubate and suction below the vocal cords

When meconium is present in the amniotic fluid and the infant demonstrates depression at birth, intubating and suctioning below the vocal cords is the appropriate intervention. This approach is crucial because meconium can obstruct the airways and lead to serious respiratory complications. By intubating the infant and suctioning below the vocal cords, the healthcare provider can actively clear any meconium present in the airway, ensuring that the infant can breathe properly and minimizing the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome. In this situation, the presence of meconium indicates that there may be a risk of aspirating thick, viscous material into the lungs, which could significantly impact the infant's respiratory function. Therefore, directly addressing the airway management is vital rather than simply administering supplemental oxygen or other interventions that would not target the underlying problem effectively.