Care of the growth-restricted newborn. (May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carducci, Bianca; Bhutta, Zulfiqar A.
• Is Part Of: Best practice & research. Volume 49(2018)
• Page Start: 103
• Page End: 116
• Publication Date: 2018-05
• Subjects: Intrauterine growth restriction -- Small-for-gestational age -- Breastfeeding -- Kangaroo Mother Care -- Perinatal Care; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Genital Diseases, Female; Obstetrics; Gynecology; Obstetrics; Periodicals; 618.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.02.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1521-6934

Abstract

Abstract: With the first 1, 000 days of life proving to be a critical window of opportunity for physical and cognitive growth and development, an optimal intrauterine environment is vital. If fetus needs are compromised prenatally, there is an increased risk of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and infants being born premature, low birth weight (LBW), or small-for-gestational age (SGA). Specialized care of these high-risk infants is necessary in terms of preconception interventions, resuscitation, thermoregulation, nutritional support and kangaroo mother care. Significant evidence supports exclusive breastfeeding as the standard of care for feeding SGA, preterm, LBW and very low birth weight infants. Expressed milk or donor milk may also require fortification, to meet higher nutrient needs of these newborns. Future research should address the gap in the literature on specific care of term and preterm IUGR and or SGA infants, and strengthening evidence for human milk bank models and emollient care. Highlights: Essential newborn care and the continuum of care tailored to growth-restricted infants is critical. Preconception care packages should be integrated across the life cycle. Breast milk is the preferred nutritional source for stable growth-restricted infants. Kangaroo mother care is protective for growth-restricted infants.