Which of the following correctly describes gastroschisis?

Gastroschisis is defined as an abdominal wall defect that occurs typically to the right of the umbilicus and is characterized by the exposure of the intestines outside of the body. The key feature of gastroschisis is that the defect is not covered by a protective sac, unlike other conditions such as omphalocele, where the organs are covered by a membrane.

This lack of a covering sac in gastroschisis exposes the bowel directly to the amniotic fluid and the external environment, which can lead to complications such as inflammation or damage to the exposed bowel. Understanding the nature of this defect is crucial for neonatologists and NICU nurses, as it influences management strategies and potential surgical interventions postnatally. Additionally, recognizing the defining characteristics helps differentiate it from other abdominal wall defects that may have different implications for treatment and prognosis.