A baby born prematurely (born prior to 37 weeks' gestation) has less time to develop in the uterus, thus increasing the risk of medical and developmental problems, according to the Mayo Clinic. Every extra day in the womb allows for a significant amount of development. The U.S. National Library of Medicine states a premature birth also affects the infant's family, who provides care and incurs the financial costs for health care.
Inadequate Respiratory Function
Vital structural growth happens in the second half of pregnancy, and when the lungs and the muscles in the chest are not fully developed, it causes inadequate respiratory function, according to "Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing," by Gloria Leifer. Leifer also states that a preterm infant has a weak gag and cough reflex because of the underdeveloped nerve supply from an immature brain.
Sepsis
Sepsis is a generalized infection of the blood, and premature infants are at high risk for acquiring this infection due to underdevelopment, according to Leifer. Sepsis typically appears within 24 hours after birth and can be contracted from the mother before or during labor, per the U.S. National Library of Medicine. The preterm newborn's liver is unable to produce adequate antibodies because of immature growth and cannot help the infant fight off the infection without medical treatment, states Leifer. Late onset of sepsis can be caused by group B streptococcus, long-term catheters in blood vessels and extended hospital stays, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Poor Control of Body Temperature
Heat loss is a complication for preterm infants because they lack brown fat, which is what insulates the body, according to Leifer. Also, the area in the brain that regulates heat is underdeveloped, allowing for excessive heat loss through the surface areas of the body, such as the head. Leifer also states that preterm infants are inactive and weak, which prevents the muscles from shivering to increase body heat. The sweat glands do not function properly in preterm infants, which can cause the infant to overheat, thus raising the body temperature.
Tendency to Bleed
Preterm infants are more likely to develop bleeding complications because they lack the clotting factor called prothrombin, according to Leifer. Intracranial hemorrhage is a concern with this complication of preterm birth because of the possible damage that can be sustained during delivery, says Leifer.
Poor Nutrition
The stomach of a preterm newborn has a small holding capacity and an immature digestive system, which can lead to an increased amount of vomiting, according to Leifer. The infant's body is typically too immature to absorb adequate nutrients and fats, both of which are needed to promote growth and healthy brain development. Poor nutrition can also be attributed to a newborn's lack of muscles and stamina, making him too weak to suck.
Jaundice
Infant jaundice, also known as icterus, is another complication of the preterm newborn, says Leifer. The Mayo Clinic says jaundice refers to a yellowing of the skin and eyes that occurs as a result of a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment of red blood cells. The higher the amount of bilirubin is, the darker the jaundice color is, according to Leifer. Infant jaundice is common, especially in babies born less than 36 weeks' gestation, says the Mayo Clinic, and occurs as a result of an immature liver.
References
- US National Library of Medicine
- University of Virginia Health System
- The Mayo Clinic: Infant Jaundice
- US National Library of Medicine: Neosepsis
- "Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing"; by Gloria Leifer; 2003
