Meconium aspiration Flashcards
What is meconium aspiration syndrome?
Respiratory distress in the newborn as a result of meconium in the fetal trachea
How does meconium aspiration syndrome occur?
When meconium is first expelled before birth into the amniotic fluid, and the meconium stained amniotic fluid is aspirated
What are the risk factors for meconium aspiration syndrome?
Post-term delivery
Maternal hypertension
Oligohydramnios
Thick meconium
Chorioamnionitis
C-section
Fetal distress
Smoking
Maternal diabetes
What are the features of meconium aspiration syndrome?
Grunting
Chest recessions
Tachycardia
Hypotension
What are the investigations performed in a neonate with meconium aspiration syndrome?
CXR
Blood culture
FBC
CRP
What is the treatment of meconium aspiration syndrome?
Oxygen therapy
IV fluids
Antibiotics (ampicillin and gentamicin)
