Neonatal Adaptation Flashcards
How does an altricial litter compared to a precocial litter?
- short gestation
- large litter size
- poor ambulation
- poor homeostatic control
- greater maternal care needs
How is oxygen supplied to the foetus?
Via the umbilical cord and placental unit
Before entering the foetal heart where is blood channeled?
To the liver of the foetus via the umbilical vein
Which 2 cardio-vascular structures close after birth?
- Foramen ovale: to increase lung circulation and pressure in left atrium
- Ductus arteriosus: reflex response to oxygenated blood
What are 3 respiratory adaptation in the neonate?
- Alveoli fully form: precocial = pre-partum, altricial = post-partum
- Surfactant production in late gestation
- Lung fluid absorption via lymph and blood within an hour of birth
Give 3 physiological breathing stimuli
- hypoxia/hypoxemia
- respiratory acidosis
- hypercapnia
Give 3 physical breathing stimuli
- lower environmental temp compared to uterus
- tactile stimulus as dam licks newborn
- gravity
How can breathing be aided?
- place into sternal recumbency
- Dopram orally or injected to stimulate respiratory centre
- rub body
- make sneeze
- can mimic temperature drop
How does the liver function change following birth?
Changes from a blood forming to a metabolic organ
What is the name given to the first passage of faeces? What does it indicate if a newborn is covered at birth?
- Meconium
- sign of foetal stress during birth, compromised newborn who needs more care
Which non-immune receptor cell is present in higher conc in neonates compared to adults?
Neutrophils
At what age are adult levels of B-cells reached?
20 days old
Where is foetal urine excreted via?
Urachus
Which reflexes are present ealy in the neonate?
Withdrawal reflex
Righting reflex
Suckling reflex
Pupillary light reflex
Where are foetal movements visual from mid-gestation?
Right flank
