Meconium Aspiration Syndrome
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Meconium is a baby's first bowel movement. Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) develops when the baby aspirates (breathes in) meconium. This usually happens while he or she is still in the womb but may happen during or shortly after birth. MAS ranges from mild to life-threatening.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that your child may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your child's medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done to your child. Make sure all of your questions are answered.
Medicines:
- Antibiotics help treat an infection caused by bacteria.
- Surfactant replacement may be given. Surfactant is normally made by a baby's body. It helps his or her lungs expand normally and reduces inflammation.
- Nitric oxide may be given if your baby is not breathing well on his or her own.
Tests:
Blood gases
may be checked if your child has trouble breathing. Blood is taken from an artery, usually in the wrist.
Treatment:
- A suction device may be used to remove meconium from your baby's airway. He or she may need to have this procedure more than once.
- Your child may need extra oxygen if his or her blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. Oxygen may be given through a mask or through small tubes placed in your child's nostrils. Ask a healthcare provider before you take off the mask or tubing.
- A ventilator may be used to help your baby breathe if he or she cannot breathe on his or her own.
RISKS:
The more meconium your baby aspirates, the more he or she is at risk for health problems. He or she may develop aspiration pneumonia. He or she may develop a severe breathing problem shortly after birth that needs immediate treatment. Long-term problems include asthma or other breathing problems, seizures, hearing loss, and developmental delays.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your baby's care. Learn about your baby's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your baby's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your baby.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
