What is typically the most serious complication of airway obstruction in neonates due to thick meconium?

Respiratory failure is the most serious complication of airway obstruction in neonates caused by thick meconium because it directly affects the infant's ability to breathe effectively. Thick meconium can obstruct the airway, leading to inadequate ventilation and gas exchange. In neonates, whose respiratory systems are delicate and not fully developed, even brief periods of airway obstruction can result in significant hypoxia, leading quickly to respiratory failure.

In this context, the risk of elevated carbon dioxide levels and decreased oxygen levels becomes critical. If the obstruction is not relieved promptly, it can lead to permanent lung damage or other complications. The presence of thick meconium can also trigger a cascade of inflammatory responses, exacerbating the situation further and potentially leading to respiratory distress syndrome.

While cardiac arrest is a serious concern, it typically follows respiratory failure if not addressed promptly; therefore, respiratory failure is prioritized as the immediate and serious complication. Other options, such as hyperglycemia and dehydration, do not have the same direct and immediate link to airway obstruction as respiratory failure does.