Newborn environment

Question 1

How does a newborn generate heat

Answer 1

They do this by burning brown fat

Question 2

Which infants are at high risk of producing too little heat 4

Answer 2

1. Preterm infants: They have low amounts of brown fat
2. Underweight for gestational age infants
3. Hypoxic infants: Hypoxia causes the burning of brown fat
4. Infections

Question 3

Which infants are at high risk for getting cold

Answer 3

1. Small infants because of the high surface area
2. Low fat: Decreased ability to insulate
3. Cold wet environment
4. Poor muscle tone because they cant stay flexed

Question 4

When should an infant be kept in an incubator to keep them warm

Answer 4

When they are under 1800g

Question 5

What are the complications of hypothermia in infants 2

Answer 5

1. Hypoglycemia: Reserves are used up
2. Hypoxia: As the blood cools it is more reluctant to give up O2

Question 6

What does hypoxia cause in an infant

Answer 6

Metabolic acidosis

Question 7

What are the complications of pyrexia in an infant 2

Answer 7

1. Recurrent apnoea
2. Dehydration

Question 8

What is the normal glucose

Answer 8

2.5 - 7

Question 9

What are the signs of hypoglycemia in infants 3

Answer 9

1. Depressed brain function
2. Overstimulated brain: Fits and seizures
3. Excessive sweating

Question 10

What is the Tx for hypoglycemia in an infant

Answer 10

1. 10mg/Kg of breastmilk
2. 10 % IV neonatalyte

Question 11

What are the 2 complications of hyperglycemia and above what level is it dangerous

Answer 11

1. Polyuria: Resulting in dehydration
2. Interventricular hemorrhage