A nurse is caring for a neonate in the neonatal intensive care unit. Exhibits Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. The neonate is most at risk for _____ due to ______

Bowel perforation is a serious complication that can occur as a result of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which is a condition often seen in preterm infants. In NEC, the intestines become inflamed and can eventually rupture, leading to bowel perforation. The neonate's symptoms, including abdominal distention, firm abdomen, decreased bowel sounds, and a small amount of blood in the stool, are consistent with NEC. The abdominal x-ray showing marked distention of the intestine further supports this diagnosis. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a common and life-threatening condition in preterm infants (like this neonate born at 34 weeks gestation), particularly those receiving enteral feedings. It can lead to bowel perforation, sepsis, and other serious complications.