Decreased neonatal body temperature

NANDA Nursing Diagnose - Decreased neonatal body temperature

Code: 00474
Domain: Domain 11 - Safety - protection
Class: Class 6 - Thermoregulation
Status: Current diagnoses

The NANDA-I diagnosis 'Decreased neonatal body temperature' highlights a critical aspect of neonatal care, emphasizing the fragility of infants during their first days of life. Maintaining an appropriate thermal state is vital, as hypothermia can lead to severe physiological disruptions, including impaired metabolic function and increased risk of morbidity. Understanding this diagnosis is essential for nursing professionals who are committed to ensuring optimal care for vulnerable neonates, thus protecting their well-being and promoting healthier outcomes.

This post aims to explore the NANDA-I diagnosis 'Decreased neonatal body temperature' in detail, beginning with a comprehensive definition that outlines its key characteristics and implications for care. By delving into the various levels of hypothermia, their signs, related factors, and at-risk populations, we will provide a thorough overview of the diagnosis. This discussion will enhance understanding of the protective measures necessary to prevent and address hypothermia in neonates, fostering improved nursing practices in critical care settings.

Definition of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The NANDA-I diagnosis of 'Decreased neonatal body temperature' refers to an unintended reduction in a newborn's thermal state, which falls below the expected normal range for infants up to 28 days old, reflecting a critical physiological challenge for this vulnerable population. This condition can manifest as hypothermia with varying degrees of severity, characterized by distinct symptoms such as a low axillary temperature, pallor, increased oxygen demand, tachycardia, and altered perfusion states. The causes of this diagnosis can be multifactorial, including environmental factors like inadequate ambient temperature, excessive heat loss through various mechanisms, and physiological aspects such as immature thermoregulatory responses. Neonates, especially those who are premature, low-birth-weight, or undergoing stressful medical interventions, are at higher risk for significant temperature drops due to factors such as delayed skin-to-skin contact, inappropriate clothing, and caregiver knowledge deficits regarding heat conservation strategies. Recognizing and intervening early in cases of decreased body temperature is crucial, as persistent hypothermia can lead to serious complications such as metabolic acidosis and respiratory distress, underscoring the need for targeted assessments and timely therapeutic measures to maintain normothermia and support overall neonatal well-being.

Defining Characteristics of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature" is identified by its defining characteristics. These are explained below:

Hypothermia - Mild
- Axillary Temperature: 36-36.4 °C (96.8 - 97.5 °F) - A body temperature within this range indicates a subsistence level of hypothermia. Such low temperatures demonstrate the neonate's inability to maintain normothermia, which is critical for metabolic processes and overall survival. The decrease in temperature can reflect ineffective thermoregulation, leading to vulnerabilities in the metabolic framework required for proper growth and development.
- Decreased Blood Glucose Levels - This occurs as a direct result of heightened metabolic demands; when the body struggles to maintain its core temperature, it utilizes glucose reserves more rapidly. Hypoglycemia can exacerbate the state of hypothermia, as glucose availability is crucial for thermogenic processes. Clinically, monitoring blood glucose is essential to prevent further complications.
- Decreased Peripheral Perfusion - Reduced perfusion may visually manifest as pallid skin and a delayed capillary refill time, which indicates compromised circulation. This decreased perfusion is not just cosmetic but reveals potential inadequacy in blood flow to critical organs, stressing the need for swift intervention.
- Increased Oxygen Demand - A neonate may show a heightened demand for oxygen owing to an amplified need for metabolic activity to manage decreased temperature. This is clinically significant as it suggests a physiological stress response, necessitating close observation and potential respiratory support.
- Pallor - A notable superficial indicator of hypoperfusion, pallid skin in neonates is a visually evident characteristic of diminished systemic blood flow. The physiological implication of pallor is dire, pointing towards inadequate oxygenation linked to compromised circulation.
- Tachycardia - An increase in heart rate is a compensatory mechanism to maintain perfusion to vital organs in response to hypothermia. Tachycardia can accelerate fatigue on the myocardium, leading to potential cardiovascular complications requiring urgent attention.
- Tachypnea - An increase in respiratory rate results from the demand for additional oxygen as metabolic processes seek to combat the effects of hypothermia. If unresolved, tachypnea can escalate into respiratory distress, underscoring the need for careful monitoring of respiratory status.
- Weight Gain of 30 g/day - Normal weight gain is critical for neonates, but when impacted by ineffective thermoregulation, it can signify poor caloric utilization. This characteristic highlights the relationship between temperature control and metabolic functioning, emphasizing the need for nutritional assessment.
Hypothermia - Moderate
- Axillary Temperature: 32-35.9 °C (89.6-96.6 °F) - This marked decrease in temperature requires immediate intervention as it situates the neonate within a risk zone for further physiological compromise. The significance lies in recognizing this level as a potential threshold toward serious neonatal complications.
- Acrocyanosis - The bluish discoloration of extremities indicates inadequate blood perfusion, signaling that the body is struggling to conserve heat and maintain homeostasis. This peripheral cyanosis is a clinical manifestation that may herald systemic hypoxia and demands thorough evaluation.
- Bradycardia - A reduced heart rate can indicate worsening hypothermia and declining cardiac function. This characteristic is clinically critical because bradycardia can precede arrhythmias, leading to significant morbidity if not promptly managed.
- Dyspnea - Respiratory distress demands immediate medical attention in neonates, as it may indicate underlying pathophysiological changes related to compromised temperature regulation. Effective oxygenation becomes paramount at this stage to avert respiratory failure.
- Abnormal Respiratory Sounds - Anomalies such as wheezing or crackles can signal developing respiratory complications. These findings necessitate prompt respiratory assessment and potential interventions to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Hypertension - Elevated blood pressure may stem from heightened stress responses, indicating that the neonate's physiological systems are under strain due to hypothermia. Monitoring blood pressure closely is vital to manage potential cardiovascular complications.
- Inadequate Energy for Sucking - Energy misallocation due to hypothermia can impair feeding ability, directly impacting nutritional status and growth potential. This characteristic warrants early intervention to ensure that nutritional needs are being met.
- Irritable Cry - Increased irritability may be an indicator of discomfort or distress, reflecting the neonate's compromised state. Clinical monitoring of behavior can provide insights into underlying conditions and the effectiveness of interventions.
- Lethargy - A pale skin appearance coupled with decreased responsiveness indicates metabolic risks linked to hypothermia. Lethargy in a neonate is a concerning sign that can reflect central nervous system involvement or increased metabolic demands.
- Metabolic Acidosis - The stress of hypothermia can disturb acid-base balance, resulting in acidosis. Clinically important, this requires careful monitoring and possible correction through fluids and metabolic support.
- Cold Skin to the Touch - Cold skin is a direct reflection of hypothermia, demonstrating the infant's inability to maintain thermoregulation. This physical examination finding emphasizes the urgent need for thermal care.
- Delayed Capillary Refill Time - A prolonged refill time indicates poor peripheral circulation, a critical observation that suggests compensatory mechanisms are failing, and clinical intervention is warranted.
- Unmanaged Hypoglycemia - Persistent hypoglycemia is a grave concern, as it can exacerbate the state of hypothermia and lead to neurological deficits if not addressed promptly. This characteristic necessitates frequent glucose monitoring and intervention.
Hypothermia - Severe
- Axillary Temperature: 32 °C (89.6 °F) - Severe hypothermia indicates a critical state that is life-threatening. Immediate intervention is crucial as this temperature level marks a crisis that can rapidly lead to multi-organ dysfunction.
- Hypoxia - A critical deficiency in oxygen at the tissue level can have immediate life-threatening implications. Hypoxia indicates a severe degree of compromised respiratory status that requires urgent resuscitation efforts.
- Peripheral Vasoconstriction - The body’s attempt to conserve heat can lead to restricted blood flow to skin and extremities, reflecting significant compromise in cardiovascular performance. Clinical assessment of perfusion and tissue viability becomes paramount.
- Respiratory Distress - Difficulty breathing in severe hypothermia indicates the likelihood of impending respiratory failure, necessitating immediate airway and breathing interventions to stabilize the neonate. Early recognition is vital to prevent irreversible damage.

Related Factors (Etiology) of the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The etiology of "Decreased neonatal body temperature" is explored through its related factors. These are explained below:

Environmental Factors
- Sala de partos con temperaturas inferiores a 25 °C (77 °F) - A birthing room that lacks sufficient warmth poses a significant risk of hypothermia in neonates. The neonate does not possess mature thermoregulatory mechanisms, making them susceptible to rapid heat loss in cooler environments. The cooler the room temperature, the higher the heat gradient between the neonate's body and the surrounding air, leading to increased conductive and convective heat loss. Clinically, it is vital to ensure that the delivery room is adequately warmed to maintain the neonate's core temperature.
- Transferencia de calor conductiva, convectiva, evaporativa y radiante excesiva- Heat loss occurs through various mechanisms: conductive heat loss when the neonate is in contact with colder surfaces, convective loss due to air flow, evaporative loss when moisture from the skin evaporates, and radiant loss from exposed body parts. These mechanisms can significantly impact neonatal temperature, especially without adequate intervention. This necessitates the use of warming devices and thermal insulation immediately after birth to prevent hypothermia.
- Temperatura ambiental baja - Environmental temperature significantly affects a neonate's body temperature. Low ambient temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia, as neonates lack sufficient insulating subcutaneous fat and have high surface area-to-volume ratios, which lead to more rapid heat loss. Addressing environmental conditions early on is essential to provide warmth and stabilize the neonate’s temperature.
Physiological Factors
- Estrato córneo inmaduro - The outer layer of skin in neonates, specifically premature or low-birth-weight infants, is thinner and less effective at retaining heat. The immaturity of this barrier results in increased transdermal water loss and heat dissipation. Hence, interventions should focus on gentle handling, appropriate clothing, and maintaining skin integrity to prevent excessive heat loss.
- Peso del recién nacido < Peso para la edad - Low birth weight neonates possess less subcutaneous fat, making them more vulnerable to heat loss. The insulative quality of fatty tissues is critical for temperature regulation; therefore, nutrition assessments and interventions to promote weight gain and overall thermal stability are crucial for these infants.
- Malnutrición - Neonates, especially premature or low-birth-weight infants who are malnourished, are at greater risk for hypothermia due to deficits in energy stores necessary for thermogenesis. These infants may not generate adequate heat in response to cold exposure; thus, ensuring that nutrition is optimized to support energy needs is critical.
Behavioral and Caregivers' Knowledge Factors
- Conocimiento inadecuado del cuidador sobre la prevención de la hipotermia - A caregiver's lack of understanding regarding the essentials of preventing neonatal hypothermia can lead to inadequate protective measures. Education on the importance of skin-to-skin contact, appropriate bundling, and environmental control is vital for enhancing caregiver competence in safeguarding the neonate's body temperature.
- Conocimiento inadecuado del cuidador sobre la importancia del manejo de la temperatura corporal - Insufficient knowledge of the critical nature of body temperature management can result in negligence of basic thermal care. Training caregivers on monitoring temperature regularly and recognizing signs of hypothermia can significantly reduce incidence rates.
- Vestimenta inadecuada - If garments do not provide adequate warmth, particularly in low-temperature environments, this can exacerbate the risk of hypothermia. Careful selection of appropriate clothing, including thermal layers and hats, can efficiently mitigate heat loss in neonates.
- Contacto piel a piel inadecuado inmediatamente después del nacimiento - Immediate skin-to-skin contact between the mother and neonate is essential for effective thermoregulation. This contact facilitates heat transfer and helps stabilize the infant’s temperature, whereas lack of it may contribute to significant body temperature drops.
- Ropa húmeda en un entorno de baja temperatura - Wet clothing significantly enhances heat loss due to the conductive nature of water and evaporation. Ensuring neonates are kept dry and warm is paramount, particularly in cooler settings.
Delayed Feeding
- Retraso en la lactancia materna - Delayed initiation of breastfeeding can lead to a lack of caloric intake necessary for thermogenesis. The metabolism of food plays an important role in generating heat. Providing early nutritional support via breastfeeding can help improve the neonate's overall energy reserves, thereby enhancing thermoregulation and reducing the risk of hypothermia.

At-Risk Population for the NANDA-I Diagnosis

Certain groups are more susceptible to "Decreased neonatal body temperature". These are explained below:

Physiological Vulnerabilities
- Neonates with Hypothalamic Damage
  Damage to the hypothalamus significantly impairs the body's ability to regulate temperature. This condition may result from congenital factors or perinatal insults. The hypothalamus is crucial for thermoregulation, and its dysfunction leads to an inability to maintain a stable body temperature, increasing the risk of hypothermia.
- Infants with Low Birth Weight
  Neonates born with low birth weight often possess lower amounts of subcutaneous fat. This lack of insulation predisposes them to rapid heat loss and makes it difficult for them to generate sufficient body heat. Moreover, they may have immature physiological systems that further compromise their thermoregulatory ability.
- Premature Infants
  Premature neonates are at a heightened risk due to their incomplete development. Their skin is thinner, their amounts of brown fat (which aids thermoregulation) are insufficient, and their neurological systems, responsible for temperature control, are not fully matured. This combination results in an increased vulnerability to hypothermia.
Environmental and Situational Factors
- Neonates Born via Cesarean Section
  Neonates delivered by C-section may experience an immediate decrease in body temperature as they are not exposed to the natural stimuli of labor that can help regulate their thermal environment. These infants often have a poorly developed thermoregulation mechanism, making them more susceptible to temperature regulation issues.
- Neonates Transported Without Thermal Support
  Transporting neonates within a hospital without effective thermal measures can lead to significant heat loss. Proper thermal management during intra-hospital transfers is crucial; inadequate measures can cause abrupt temperature drops.
- Neonates Resuscitated without Thermal Devices
  Those who undergo resuscitation without appropriate warming devices are at significant risk. The process of resuscitation can lead to rapid heat loss, particularly if performed in a cooler ambient environment, thereby increasing the risk of hypothermia.
Socioeconomic and Parental Factors
- Neonates Born to Young or Inexperienced Parents
  Parents who are teenagers or lack experience may not have adequate knowledge about neonatal care needs, including temperature management. This factor can lead to inadequate responses to the infant's thermoregulation needs, resulting in increased vulnerability to hypothermia.
- Neonates Born into Economically Disadvantaged Families
  Families in economically challenging situations may lack access to essential resources that provide a suitable environment for neonatal care. Inadequate housing, heating devices, and parental education on newborn care can severely compromise the ability to maintain a stable temperature for the infant.
- Neonates Born to Mothers with Hypertension
  Maternal hypertension can lead to complications during pregnancy and delivery, which may affect the newborn's initial health status. Infants born under such conditions often face challenges in physiological adaptation post-delivery, including thermoregulation difficulties.
Clinical Complications and Birth Circumstances
- Neonates Experiencing Delayed Drying Post-Birth
  If neonates are not dried immediately after birth, they can become wet, leading to heat loss through evaporation. Timely drying is essential to prevent rapid decreases in body temperature shortly after delivery.
- Neonates with High Surface Area to Volume Ratios
  Infants with a higher surface area-to-volume ratio lose heat more rapidly than those with more favorable ratios. This characteristic places them at increased risk for hypothermia, especially if they are small for gestational age.

Associated Conditions for the NANDA-I Diagnosis

The diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature" can coexist with other conditions. These are explained below:

Hypoglycemia Decreased body temperature in neonates can be caused by or contribute to hypoglycemia, a condition where blood glucose levels fall below the normal range. In newborns, especially in those who are premature or have low birth weight, energy reserves are limited, making them more susceptible to drops in glucose levels. Hypoglycemia can impair thermoregulation, leading to a drop in body temperature. Clinically, it is vital to assess the neonate's glucose levels regularly, particularly in cases of poor feeding, lethargy, or if the infant is exhibiting signs of hypothermia. Timely intervention in increasing blood glucose can prevent further complications associated with both conditions and is crucial for maintaining normal body temperature and metabolic function.
Pharmaceutical Preparations Certain medications administered to neonates may interfere with their ability to regulate body temperature. For instance, drugs that relax the vasculature can lead to peripheral vasodilation, decreasing the infant's ability to maintain thermoregulation and raising the risk of heat loss. Moreover, opioids and sedatives may impair the central nervous system's function, affecting its ability to maintain homeostasis. It is essential for healthcare providers to conduct thorough medication histories and monitor any potential adverse effects on the neonate's temperature regulation, ensuring adjustments in care protocols or interventions to mitigate the risk of hypothermia.
Sepsis Sepsis in neonates manifests as a systemic inflammatory response to infection, which can profoundly alter body temperature, causing either fever or hypothermia. The inflammatory processes involved in sepsis can disrupt the hypothalamic regulation of body temperature. In the context of decreased neonatal body temperature, sepsis is particularly concerning as it may indicate a severe underlying infection that compromises the neonate's physiological stability. Early identification and management of sepsis are critical, including monitoring for signs of infection, promptly administering broad-spectrum antibiotics, and ensuring supportive care to maintain normal body temperature while managing the underlying infection.

NOC Objectives / Expected Outcomes

For the NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature", the following expected outcomes (NOC) are proposed to guide the evaluation of the effectiveness of nursing interventions. These objectives focus on improving the patient's status in relation to the manifestations and etiological factors of the diagnosis:

Thermal Regulation
This outcome is critical as it directly addresses the infant's ability to maintain normal body temperature. Improving thermal regulation signifies successful interventions aimed at stabilizing the neonate's body temperature, which is essential for metabolic processes and overall health.
Temperature Maintenance
This NOC outcome evaluates the effectiveness of nursing measures aimed at sustaining the infant's body temperature within a normal range. Achieving this outcome reinforces the importance of consistent monitoring and intervention and helps prevent complications associated with hypothermia.
Physiologic Stability
Assessing physiological stability incorporates multiple parameters including temperature. This outcome indicates that the neonate is responding well to nursing care and that vital signs, including temperature, are within desirable limits, reflecting an overall improvement in the health status of the infant.
Heat Loss Prevention
This outcome focuses on the effectiveness of strategies implemented to prevent excessive heat loss in neonates, such as proper swaddling or the use of radiant warmers. Achievement in this area is vital to counteract the potential for hypothermia and support the infant’s thermal comfort.

NIC Interventions / Nursing Care Plan

To address the NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature" and achieve the proposed NOC objectives, the following nursing interventions (NIC) are suggested. These interventions are designed to treat the etiological factors and manifestations of the diagnosis:

Thermal Regulation
This intervention involves maintaining the optimal ambient temperature for the neonate to prevent hypothermia. By using incubators or heated blankets, the nurse can ensure that the neonate is kept warm enough to maintain normal body temperature, thus preventing complications associated with decreased body temperature.
Skin Care
This intervention emphasizes the importance of keeping the neonate's skin dry and free from moisture, which can lead to heat loss. Proper skin care helps in maintaining body temperature by reducing heat loss through evaporation, hence promoting thermal stability in the newborn.
Parent Education
Educating parents about the signs of hypothermia and the importance of maintaining appropriate environmental conditions at home is crucial. By empowering parents with knowledge, they can take necessary precautions to ensure the newborn remains warm and reduce the risk of temperature fluctuations.
Monitoring Body Temperature
Continuous or regular monitoring of the neonate's body temperature is essential for early detection of hypothermia. This intervention allows for timely interventions, as it provides accurate readings to guide nursing actions aimed at maintaining normothermia.
Swaddling
This intervention involves wrapping the neonate in warm, soft blankets to conserve body heat. Swaddling helps the newborn feel secure and maintains warmth, which is vital in preventing hypothermia and promoting comfort.

Detailed Nursing Activities

The NIC interventions for the NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature" are composed of specific activities that nursing staff carry out to provide effective care. Below, examples of activities for the key identified interventions are detailed:

For the NIC Intervention: Thermal Regulation

Set up and monitor an incubator or a radiant warmer to provide the optimal temperature for the neonate, ensuring the temperature is consistently maintained.
Adjust room temperature and minimize drafts by closing windows and using barriers, preventing sudden temperature changes that could lead to hypothermia.
Regularly assess the temperature of the incubator or warmer surface using calibrated thermometers to ensure it is functioning correctly and providing adequate warmth.

For the NIC Intervention: Skin Care

Perform frequent assessments of the neonate's skin to identify any signs of moisture or irritation that may contribute to heat loss.
Gently clean and dry the neonate’s skin after bathing or any contact with fluids to prevent skin breakdown and maintain skin integrity for better heat retention.
Apply a thin layer of protective barrier cream to vulnerable areas to further reduce moisture loss and insulate the skin.

For the NIC Intervention: Monitoring Body Temperature

Implement continuous temperature monitoring using skin probes or external thermometers to provide real-time data on the neonate's body temperature.
Document temperature readings at regular intervals and note any fluctuations to track trends and inform nursing interventions.
Alert the healthcare team promptly if the neonate exhibits signs of hypothermia, ensuring timely medical intervention to prevent complications.

Practical Tips and Advice

To more effectively manage the NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature" and improve well-being, the following suggestions and tips are offered for patients and their families:

Ensure a Warm Environment

Keep your baby's room at a warm and comfortable temperature, ideally between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the room temperature and adjust heating sources as needed to maintain warmth.
Skin-to-Skin Contact

Engage in skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, by holding your baby close to your chest. This natural method helps to regulate their body temperature and provides comfort and bonding.
Use Proper Clothing

Dress your baby in layers that are appropriate for their environment. Consider using hats, socks, and mittens, as newborns lose heat quickly through their heads and extremities.
Monitor Temperature Regularly

Regularly check your baby's temperature with a digital thermometer to ensure it remains within a healthy range (97.7°F to 99.5°F or 36.5°C to 37.5°C). This helps identify any temperature drops early on.
Feeding as Needed

Feed your baby on demand, as feeding can provide both nutrition and energy, which are essential for maintaining body temperature. Breast milk is particularly beneficial as it helps with thermoregulation.
Avoid Cold Surfaces

When placing your baby in a crib or on a changing table, ensure the surfaces are pre-warmed with blankets or your hands. Cold surfaces can quickly draw heat away from your baby.
Limit Exposure to Drafts

Keep your baby away from windows, doors, and vents that may expose them to cold drafts. Use curtains and draft stoppers to maintain a stable temperature in their environment.

Practical Example / Illustrative Case Study

To illustrate how the NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature" is applied in clinical practice and how it is addressed, let's consider the following case:

Patient Presentation and Clinical Context

A female newborn, aged 2 days, was admitted to the neonatal unit after a home birth. The mother reported that the infant had been experiencing difficulty maintaining body heat, with the caregiver noting a cold touch to the skin. The infant's birth weight was 3.1 kg, and there were no significant complications during delivery, but the premature rupture of membranes occurred 24 hours before birth.

Nursing Assessment

During the assessment, the following significant data were collected:

Key Objective Datum 1: Axillary temperature recorded at 35.4°C (normal range: 36.5°C - 37.5°C).
Key Objective Datum 2: Baby exhibits signs of lethargy and decreased muscle tone.
Key Objective Datum 3: Skin appears pale and cool to the touch compared to normal range.
Key Subjective Datum 1: Mother reports the infant had poor feeding and was not actively sucking during attempts to breastfeed.
Key Objective Datum 4: Heart rate measured at 130 beats per minute (within normal limits, but on the lower end for a newborn).
Key Objective Datum 5: Capillary refill time was delayed at 3 seconds.

Analysis and Formulation of the NANDA-I Nursing Diagnosis

The analysis of the assessment data leads to the identification of the following nursing diagnosis: Decreased neonatal body temperature. This conclusion is based on the axillary temperature reading below normal physiological levels, combined with the infant's clinical presentation of lethargy, poor feeding, pale skin, and delayed capillary refill time. These findings are indicative of hypothermia, placing the neonate at significant risk for impaired thermoregulation.

Proposed Care Plan (Key Objectives and Interventions)

The care plan will focus on addressing the "Decreased neonatal body temperature" diagnosis with the following priority elements:

Objectives (Suggested NOCs)

Thermoregulation maintained within normal limits.
Effective thermoregulation behaviors demonstrated by the neonate.

Interventions (Suggested NICs)

Thermal Regulation:
- Place the infant in a pre-heated incubator set at 36.5°C to gradually raise the body temperature.
- Monitor temperature every 30 minutes until stable (within normal range).
Nutrition Management:
- Encourage breastfeeding and assist the mother with positioning to support feeding efforts.

Progress and Expected Outcomes

With the implementation of the proposed interventions, it is expected that the patient will achieve a stable body temperature within the normal range, showing signs of improved activity and feeding behaviors. Continuous monitoring will allow evaluation of the plan's effectiveness, ensuring an optimal recovery and healthy thermoregulation in the neonate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about the NANDA-I diagnosis "Decreased neonatal body temperature":

1. What causes decreased body temperature in newborns?

Decreased body temperature in newborns can be caused by factors such as premature birth, low birth weight, inadequate clothing or swaddling, exposure to cold environments, and certain medical conditions affecting thermoregulation.

2. How can decreased body temperature affect a newborn's health?

Lower body temperature can lead to hypothermia, which may result in increased oxygen demand, metabolic slowdown, and complications such as respiratory distress, hypoglycemia, and impaired immune function.

3. What are the signs of decreased body temperature in a newborn?

Signs of decreased body temperature in a newborn may include cold skin, lethargy, poor feeding, changes in skin color, and abnormal breathing patterns. It's crucial to monitor their temperature regularly.

4. How is decreased body temperature in newborns treated?

Treatment involves providing appropriate warming measures, such as using incubators or warming blankets, and ensuring the newborn is properly clothed and sheltered from cold drafts.

5. What can parents do to prevent decreased body temperature in their newborn?

Parents can help prevent decreased body temperature by dressing their newborn in several layers of clothing, using hats, keeping the nursery warm, and promptly responding to any signs of chilling.