The 36-hour-old neonate who was born at 37 weeks gestation to a G3P2 mother has yet to pass meconium. The baby was born by cesarean section due to refractory preeclampsia with severe features. The mother reports the baby has been breastfeeding well after a slow first 12 hours. Upon assessment, the baby appears well with good tone and responsiveness. The baby’s anus is patent and the abdomen is soft and rounded; bowel sounds present. The mother denies emesis in the baby. An abdominal x-ray is obtained, which is normal. The nurse informs the mother that which test will be performed next?

Question

The 36-hour-old neonate who was born at 37 weeks gestation to a G3P2 mother has yet to pass meconium. The baby was born by cesarean section due to refractory preeclampsia with severe features. The mother reports the baby has been breastfeeding well after a slow first 12 hours. Upon assessment, the baby appears well with good tone and responsiveness. The baby&rsquo;s anus is patent and the abdomen is soft and rounded; bowel sounds present. The mother denies emesis in the baby. An abdominal x-ray is obtained, which is normal. The nurse informs the mother that which test will be performed next?

Accepted Answer

Serum magnesium level. The mother was most likely treated with magnesium sulfate for her preeclampsia with severe features. Hypermagnesemia in the neonate can result in poor tone, respiratory depression, and decreased gastrointestinal motility. Although not passing meconium by 24 hours is abnormal, hypermagnesemia is expected in this patient and will resolve. A rectal biopsy and barium enema are not indicated at this time. There is nothing to indicate a need for a urine drug screen.

Want help? View the answer with rationale.

Rationale

Additional Health Promotion and Maintenance Questions

Nursing Careers

Nursing Degrees

NCLEX