A premature infant who is receiving care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has just been identified as having necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Of the following clinical manifestations, identify those most likely to contribute to the diagnosis of NEC. Select all that apply.
A) Feeding intolerance
B) Inability to pass stool within the first 10 days of life
C) Hard, taut abdomen with increasing distention
D) Blood noted in stools
E) Hypoactive bowel sounds on right lower quadrant

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Immature immunity, shunting of circulation away from the GI tract, and infectious processes have all been implicated in the etiology of NEC. The classic initial symptoms are usually feeding intolerance, abdominal distention, and bloody stools shortly after the first week of life.

A Premature Infant Who Is Receiving Care in a Neonatal