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Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Nursing Care of the Premature Child

Any sudden changes in the infants condition which is urgent must be speedily reported.
The frequency and nature of bating is dependent on the condition of the child and policy of the institution. Ensure body temperature is kept stable e.g. using swaddling clothes, placing in a warmer or incubator.
Wash hands properly.
Clean eyes daily with cotton swabs soaked in warm sterile water using separate swabs for each eye, to prevent infection of the other eye.
Keep umbilical cord dry at all times.
Never work in a nursery while suffering from respiratory or skin infections.
Development of normal child:
1. An average new born weighs approximately 7.5 lbs or 3.5 kg.
2. The head circumference is approximately 13 inches.
3. Nails are soft and inclined to peel off
4. Eyes lack pigment
5. Infant is not yet sensitized to hot or cold as the regulation centre is not yet mature.
6. Respiratory rate is usually 30-40 breaths per minute, and is irregular in rhythm.
7. The child sleeps for long periods
Motor reflexes of a new born:
Sucking reflex: able to suck and chew.
Walking reflexes: able to walk in response to stimuli.
Rooting Reflex: touch cheek and the child turns it head towards the breast.
Babinski: on stroking the sole of the foot, the great toe bends upward instead or downward. Present in diseases or injury to upper motor neutron and in babies who have not walked.
Moro Reflex: React to loud noise or sudden movements.
Care of an ill child
1. Illness threatens the physical development of the children and their trust in others or adults.
2. It can cause pain, restriction of movements and long sleepless moments.
3. Parents fears are usually caused by lack of communication with their children
4. Children react to illness depending on their age, maturity and how accustomed they are to be left alone, as well as how prepared they are for medical or surgical interventions.
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