Neonate

Neonate is a term used to describe a baby in its first 28 days of life, also known as the newborn period. This period is characterized by rapid physiological changes, with significant adaptation required by the neonate to survive outside the womb.

Physiology

The physiology of a neonate is distinct from older children and adults due to the transition from fetal circulation. The most significant changes occur in the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and thermoregulation.

Cardiovascular system

In the womb, the neonate's oxygen supply comes from the mother via the placenta. After birth, the neonate must begin to breathe on its own to supply oxygen to its body. This transition involves the closure of the ductus arteriosus and foramen ovale, two structures that allow blood to bypass the lungs in the fetus.

Respiratory system

The first breaths a neonate takes are critical to expand the lungs and establish functional residual capacity. The lungs of a neonate are filled with fluid during fetal life, which must be cleared at birth. This is achieved through hormonal changes, physical compression during birth, and the absorption of fluid into the lymphatic and vascular systems.

Thermoregulation

Neonates are at a high risk of hypothermia due to their large surface area to volume ratio and lack of insulating fat. They have several mechanisms to maintain their body temperature, including non-shivering thermogenesis in the brown adipose tissue.

Health issues

Neonates are susceptible to a range of health issues, including infections, birth trauma, congenital abnormalities, and prematurity. These can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings.

Care

The care of neonates involves routine monitoring, feeding, and maintaining a warm environment. In cases of illness, neonates may require additional interventions such as antibiotics, resuscitation, or surgery.

See also

• Infant
• Pediatrics
• Neonatology

Neonate Resources
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