As you approach the end of your pregnancy you may feel as if you have been pregnant for a long time. Some women experience the delivery of a postterm infant, or a baby that is born after 42 weeks of gestation, says Karla L. Luxner, author of "Delmar's Maternal-Infant Nursing Care Plans." Caring for a newborn who was born after this time period will require some important treatments and examinations in order to ensure that the little one gets the care she needs.
Step 1
Provide suction in order to remove the meconium from the postterm infant's airway. Postterm infants are usually born after they have passed their first bowel movement, or meconium. As she remains in the womb she may breathe in some of this substance, making it difficult for her to breathe once she is born. Suction out the meconium from under the vocal cords before initiating respiration, Luxner recommends.
Step 2
Feed the postterm infant as soon as possible because he is born very hungry. Offer the newborn a feeding within 1 to 2 hours following birth, suggests N. Jayne Klossner, author of "Introductory Maternity Nursing," as long as the baby is breathing well on his own. Encourage the new mother to attempt breastfeeding as soon as she is able.
Step 3
Monitor the glucose level of the postterm infant. Postterm babies are at a higher risk for developing hypoglycemia, and regular glucose tests can detect an inappropriate level before it poses a serious problem, Klossner says.
Step 4
Regulate the temperature where the postterm infant is resting. Minimize heat loss by using a radient heat warmer or isolette, Klossner recommends. Reduce the potential that drafts that can cause the baby to get a chill by keeping her away from vents and open windows. Provide additional blankets so parents can bundle their newborn as necessary.
Step 5
Offer support and education to the parents of the postterm infant. Many parents are not prepared for the appearance of a postterm infant and may have a difficult time bonding with the baby at first. Prepare parents before delivery and be available to answer any questions following the birth so they are comfortable with the procedures being done.
Tips and Warnings
- Explain to the parents of a postterm baby what their newborn will look like before he is born. Tell them that their newborn will be long and thin and will most likely be alert with his eyes open. Let the parents know that the skin will be loose, dry and cracked, and may be stained with meconium. The fingernails may also be long and stained with meconium. Sufficient preparation will allow parents to bond with their baby immediately despite his unexpected appearance.
- Prepare for various situations that can affect a postterm infant. Have the materials and supplies necessary to monitor the baby's heart function, and be prepared in the event that the newborn begins to have a seizure.
Things You'll Need
- Labor and delivery equipment
- Blankets
References
- "Delmar's Maternal-Infant Nursing Care Plans"; Karla L. Luxner; 2005
- "Introductory Maternity Nursing"; N. Jayne Klossner; 2005
