During the first 36 hours after birth, nurses in the neonatal unit carefully watch the baby for irritability and abdominal distension. They note that she has passed no stool since birth. Which of the...

During the first 36 hours after birth, nurses in the neonatal unit carefully watch the baby for irritability and abdominal distension. They note that she has passed no stool since birth. Which of the following has to be considered?

a. This is a common manifestation among most newborns and should not cause concern.

b. Down syndrome babies occasionally have a serious gastrointestinal blockage that requires surgery.

c. The baby may be showing signs of a gastrointestinal allergy to her mother’s breast milk.