Moderate

A term newborn has not passed meconium during the first 24 hours after birth. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct answer: A. Report the finding for further assessment

  • A. Report the finding for further assessment
  • B. Give oral water to stimulate the bowel
  • C. Wait until the newborn is seven days old
  • D. Begin rectal stimulation routinely

Explanation

Failure to pass meconium within the first 24 hours can indicate intestinal obstruction, Hirschsprung disease, or another problem and requires assessment. Routine water or rectal stimulation may cause harm and can delay diagnosis.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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