Perinatal stress and the premature neonate: I. Effect of fluid and calorie deprivation

Abstract

The metabolic adjustments of the premature infant with or without accompanying perinatal stresses such as respiratory distress, asphyxia, toxemia in the mother, or a breech delivery were evaluated for the first 6 days of life. During the first 72 hours no fluid or calories were given. Basic similarities in the patterns of change in all groups were remarkable. Hypernatremia and prolonged acidosis were frequent findings in infants initially asphyxiated; increased weight loss and increased potassium excretion were seen in the lowest weight group in association with respiratory distress.