Newborn infant

Newborn infant or neonate refers to an infant in the first 28 days after birth. The term is derived from the Latin 'neo', 'new' and 'natus', 'born'. The newborn stage is a critical period as adaptations outside the womb can lead to diseases in neonates.

Characteristics

Newborn infants have several physical characteristics that differentiate them from older infants and children. These include a disproportionately large head, lack of muscular control, fine hair called lanugo, and a distinctive newborn smell.

Health

Newborn health is a critical area of pediatric medicine. Common health issues in newborns include jaundice, infections, birth injuries, and congenital disorders.

Jaundice

Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, caused by an excess of bilirubin in the blood. It is usually harmless and resolves without treatment.

Infections

Newborns are susceptible to infections due to their immature immune system. These can be bacterial, viral, or fungal, and can affect various parts of the body.

Birth Injuries

Birth injuries are physical injuries that occur during birth. They can be caused by a difficult delivery, premature birth, or medical negligence.

Congenital Disorders

Congenital disorders are conditions that are present at birth. They can be genetic or caused by environmental factors during pregnancy.

Care

Newborn care involves feeding, hygiene, and monitoring for signs of illness. It also includes routine medical care such as vaccinations and screenings.

See Also

• Infant
• Pediatrics
• Congenital disorder
• Jaundice

Newborn infant Resources
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