Introduction
The neonatal period is the time period immediately after birth, typically lasting up to four weeks. It is a critical period during which the newborn’s physiology and organs are transitioning from the extrauterine environment to the extrauterine environment. This period is characterized by dynamic hormonal, metabolic, and cardiovascular changes, and presents a unique opportunity for health care professionals to assess, diagnose, and treat various conditions (Truog, 2016).
Physiological Changes
During the neonatal period, the primary physiological changes involve the transition from fetal to extrauterine circulation. This includes a decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance, an increase in cardiac output, and an increase in arterial oxygen saturation (de Graaff et al., 2018). Other physiological changes include the development of the gastrointestinal system, the maturation of the immune system, and the establishment of thermoregulation. In addition, the newborn’s renal system matures, allowing the excretion of metabolic waste products and the production of hormones.
Medical Conditions
This period of transition is also associated with a variety of medical conditions, including respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage, sepsis, and necrotizing enterocolitis (Truog, 2016). Respiratory distress syndrome is the most common condition in preterm infants and is characterized by inadequate alveolar distension and low pulmonary compliance, resulting in hypoxia and respiratory failure (de Graaff et al., 2018). Intraventricular hemorrhage is a common condition in preterm infants and is characterized by bleeding within the ventricular system of the brain, leading to neurological damage and long-term disabilities (Truog, 2016). Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to a bacterial infection and can be caused by infection of the umbilical cord or ingestion of contaminated amniotic fluid (de Graaff et al., 2018). Lastly, necrotizing enterocolitis is a potentially life-threatening condition that results in inflammation and necrosis of the intestinal tissue (Truog, 2016).
Management
The management of conditions during the neonatal period varies depending on the severity of the condition and the gestational age of the newborn. For example, respiratory distress syndrome is typically managed with supplemental oxygen and mechanical ventilation, while intraventricular hemorrhage is managed with supportive care, such as fluid and electrolyte management, nutritional support, and blood transfusions (de Graaff et al., 2018). Sepsis is typically managed with antibiotics and supportive care, while necrotizing enterocolitis is managed with antibiotics, nutritional support, and surgical intervention if necessary (Truog, 2016).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the neonatal period is a critical period during which the newborn’s physiology and organs are transitioning from the extrauterine environment to the extrauterine environment. This period is characterized by dynamic hormonal, metabolic, and cardiovascular changes, and presents a unique opportunity for health care professionals to assess, diagnose, and treat various conditions. The management of conditions during the neonatal period varies depending on the severity of the condition and the gestational age of the newborn.
References
de Graaff, A. E., van Kaam, A. H., van Elburg, R. M., & van Weissenbruch, M. M. (2018). Neonatal transition physiology. Seminars in Fetal & Neonatal Medicine, 23(3), 177-183.
Truog, W. E. (2016). Neonatal transition: Physiology, care, and implications for development. Clinics in Perinatology,43(1), 1-10.