What defines a post term infant?

A post-term infant is defined as one that is born more than 42 weeks of gestational age. This classification is important in both clinical assessments and management, as infants who are post-term may be at risk for various complications, including reduced amniotic fluid levels, meconium aspiration, and placental insufficiency.

Understanding gestational age is crucial for evaluating a newborn’s health and planning appropriate care. Infants born after 42 weeks may also show signs of aging, such as dry, peeling skin and reduced vernix, which can indicate that they have been in the womb longer than the typical term period. Thus, knowing that an infant is post-term can help healthcare providers anticipate and monitor for these potential issues.

The other choices describe different classifications of gestational ages, but only the definition of more than 42 weeks accurately identifies a post-term infant.