Neonatal Temperature Regulation and Hypothermia: Clinical Features and Management

Neonatal hypothermia is a serious condition that affects newborns, particularly preterm or low birth weight infants. Proper temperature regulation is critical to ensuring neonatal health and development.

Classification of Neonatal Hypothermia

• Mild Hypothermia: 36.0°C to 36.4°C
• Moderate Hypothermia: 32.0°C to 35.9°C
• Severe Hypothermia: Below 32.0°C

Clinical Features

Signs of neonatal hypothermia include lethargy, poor feeding, respiratory distress, and bradycardia. In severe cases, metabolic acidosis and hypoglycemia may occur.

Management Strategies

• Early detection and monitoring of neonatal temperature.
• Providing external heat sources such as incubators or skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo Mother Care).
• Ensuring proper clothing and thermal insulation.
• Managing associated complications like hypoglycemia and respiratory distress.

Prevention

Preventive measures include delayed bathing, maintaining warm delivery rooms, and early breastfeeding initiation.