Nursing Blog

Low birth weight (LBW) is defined as a birth weight of a liveborn infant of less than 2,500 g (5 pounds 8 ounces) regardless of gestational age. Subcategories include very low birth weight (VLBW) which is less than 1500 g (3 pounds 5 ounces), and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) which is less than 1000 g (2 pounds 3 ounces). Normal Weight at term delivery is 2500 g - 4200 g (5 pounds 8 ounces - 9 pounds 4 ounces). Preventing a Low Birth Weight Baby There are many things an expectant mother can do to help reduce the chances of delivering a baby with low birth weight. The most important thing any mother can do is to see her health care provider on a regular basis. Regular check-ups can ensure that both mother and baby are healthy, growing, and developing properly. The health care provider can also help the expectant mother to manage any illnesses, conditions, or mental health issues she may have while she is pregnant. Folic acid plays a major role when preventing any type of birth defec

Definition Low Birth Weight “as one whose birth weight is less than 2500gm irrespective of the gestational age”. Very low birth infants weight 1500gm or less and Extremely-low birth infant weight 1000gm or less. 1. Altered breathing pattern dyspnea related to poor lung maturity secondary to respiratory distress. Baby should be positioned with neck slightly extended. Tackling stimulation by sole flaring can be provided to stimulate respiratory effort Do gentle suctioning to remove the secretion, Concentration of oxygen to be maintained to have saO2 between 90 and 95% and paO2 between 60 and 80 mm of Hg. Baby’s respiration rate, rhythm, signs of distress, chest retraction, nasal flaring, apnea, cyanosis, oxygen, saturation, etc. to be monitored at frequent interval. Chest physiotherapy by percussion, vibration and postural drainage may be needed to loosen and remove respiratory secretion. 2. Altered body temperature hypothermia related to immature thermoregulation centre secondary to