Fetal Lung Maturity

by Cathy Parkes September 13, 2020 Updated: December 29, 2021

Anamniocentesis is a procedure used to identify chromosomal abnormalities, neural tube defects, Rh incompatibility, and fetal lung maturity.

Fetal lung maturity is determined by the L/S ratio (HINT: L/S measures levels of Lung Surfactants). AnL/S ratio ≥ 2:1 indicates the baby's lungs are mature.

Glucocorticoids can help promote fetal lung maturity in pre-term labor. Give 24-48 hours before birth.

To learn more, see our full article on amniocentesis!

Edema Scoring

Edema is documented by the depth of the indentation left by pressing a finger over the edematous area. A score of 0 means there is no pitting edema.

During sterile field preparation, open the top flap away from your body first. Then open the flap on the right side using the right hand, and the left side using the left hand. Lastly, open the final flap towards your body.