High-Risk Newborn Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and important definitions related to high-risk newborn care as outlined in the lecture notes.

What are high-risk newborns characterized by?

High-risk newborns have an increased chance of dying, have a congenital or perinatal problem, and need prompt intervention in NICU.

What is defined as a newborn born after 20 weeks but before the start of the 38th week of gestation?

Preterm neonate.

What is the weight threshold for low birth weight (LBW)?

Less than 2500 grams (5 lb. 8 oz.).

What are common physical characteristics of a preterm neonate?

Scrawny appearance, poor muscle tone, minimal subcutaneous fat, and thin transparent skin.

What risks are associated with late preterm infants?

Respiratory disorders, poor thermoregulation, hypoglycemia, jaundice, feeding problems, acidosis, and sepsis.

What is important for the thermoregulation of a preterm infant?

To maintain a neutral thermal environment to prevent increased oxygen needs to maintain body temperature.

What is neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)?

A syndrome of drug dependency acquired in utero, manifested by neurologic and physical behaviors after birth.

What are the symptoms of withdrawal in neonates?

Wakefulness, irritability, temperature variations, hyperactivity, high pitched cry, diarrhea, diaphoresis, respiratory distress, apnea, and weight loss.

How does meconium aspiration syndrome impact a newborn?

It causes airway obstruction, pneumonitis, and air trapping; prevention of aspiration is key.

What is the most common clinical insult leading to brain injury in newborns?

Perinatal asphyxia.

What nursing actions are key for managing respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)?

Minimize stimulation, maintain warmth, provide IV fluids, and potentially use mechanical ventilation and exogenous surfactant.

What is the typical assessment finding in post-term infants?

Dry, cracked, wrinkled skin, possibly meconium-stained, and long thin extremities.

What factors contribute to increased risk for respiratory distress in preterm infants?

Lack of surfactant, poor cough reflex, and weak muscles lead to increased respiratory distress.

How is spina bifida classified?

By incomplete closure of the vertebrae, including spina bifida occulta and spina bifida cystica.

What are the key components of nursing management for high-risk infants?

Oxygenation, thermal regulation, nutrition and fluid balance, infection prevention, stimulation, pain management, and parental support.

What contributes to the increase in neonatal abstinence syndrome?

Opioid use during pregnancy leading to drug withdrawal symptoms in newborns.