Meconium Ileus

Meconium ileus is a newborn intestinal obstruction in which abnormally thick, tenacious meconium cannot be propelled through the distal small bowel. The bowel usually remains in continuity, but the obstruction can be complicated by volvulus, intestinal atresia or perforation. The ileum is a segment of the small bowel; meconium ileus is the obstruction inside it. Record the specific diagnosis, because meconium plug, meconium peritonitis and meconium aspiration carry different implications. The nursing concern is wider than a late first stool. An obstructed newborn who vomits cannot feed, loses fluid into the stomach and bowel, and can deteriorate quickly, so early neonatal and surgical assessment is the priority.