Module 7: Labor & Postpartum Complications

Comprehensive Study Guide

1. Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

Yellow or cloudy amniotic fluid = INFECTION (chorioamnionitis). This is your #1 concern!

Remember: Clear fluid ≠ No infection. Always assess comprehensively!

Comprehensive Study Guide

The more premature the infant, the greater the risk for ALL complications!

Remember: Gestational age is the STRONGEST predictor of neonatal outcomes.

Classification	Definition	Key Characteristics	Primary Concerns
Extremely Preterm	<28 weeks	• Translucent skin • Fused eyelids • No ear cartilage • Minimal subcutaneous fat	• Survival 80-90% • High risk IVH, ROP • Chronic lung disease • Neurodevelopmental issues
Very Preterm	28-32 weeks	• Thin skin • Some ear cartilage • Weak suck • Poor tone	• RDS common • Feeding difficulties • Temperature instability • Apnea of prematurity
Late Preterm	34 0/7 - 36 6/7 weeks	• Look mature • May have good tone • Inconsistent feeding • Sleepy	• Hypoglycemia • Jaundice • Feeding problems • Readmission risk
Term	37-42 weeks	• Full subcutaneous fat • Good muscle tone • Strong suck • Alert periods	• Transition issues • Birth injuries • Congenital anomalies
Post-term	>42 weeks	• Peeling skin • Long nails • Meconium staining • Alert, wide-eyed	• Meconium aspiration • Hypoglycemia • Polycythemia • Poor placental function