Meconium aspiration syndrome: identifying obstetric and neonatal risk situations

Abstract

Objective: To identify situations of obstetric and neonatal risk that favored meconium aspiration syndrome as well as complications in clinical evolution presented by these neonates. Method: Iit is a quantitative, retrospective study and documentary analysis, conducted from January 2009 to December 2010. Data from 40 medical records were recorded in a database and analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis software. Results: 67,5% of mothers had fewer than six prenatal consultations and 42,5% had complications during pregnancy. Cesarean section predominated with 75%, indicated by fetal distress. There were 90% of neonates had an average gestational age of 37 weeks or more, 82,5% had an Apgar score below 7, requiring resuscitation at birth and ventilatory support. Conclusion: Proper monitoring of pregnant women throughout pregnancy cycle and in labor as well as the need to care for neonates in the delivery room can reduce the incidence of the syndrome.