Thermoregulation in the Preterm Neonate

Evidence shows that hypothermia is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality. However, by developing a group of thermoregulation strategies we can dramatically improve temperature regulation and in turn infant outcomes and survival. This presentation will review the physiology of temperature regulation and methods of heat loss. It will also offer thermoregulation practice strategies to utilize in the delivery room, techniques for maintaining normothermia while providing a developmentally supportive environment and closing with weaning strategies from an incubator.

Objectives:

1. Describe three physiologic mechanisms of thermoregulation in the preterm infant.

2. Explain the importance of utilizing dual monitoring measurements to assess and maintain thermal stability.

3. List two practice, equipment, or environmental modifications to consider when utilizing developmental support devices in the NICU.

Total CE = 1

NCC Code NNP 3 or 7

NCC Code NIC 1 or 7

NCC Code LRN 2 or 7

Rx = 0

*This presentation was included in the Small Baby Care Specialist® Program

Last updated: January, 2022


Your Instructor


Liz Drake
Liz Drake

Liz Drake has been practicing in the NICU for 34 years. She received her Master’s Degree, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist certification from UCLA. Quality Improvement, Neuro-protective Care and Family Partnered Care are her passions and expertise. She has a strong desire to teach the healthcare team about the uniqueness and language of the premature infant as every touch and experience can have impact. Through team building, education, academic thinking and direct patient care Liz has a tireless focus on excellence. Her vision for the future is to create passion and desire in others to practice with intention, purpose and to practically integrate evidence into the care provided to infants and families. Liz is a driver for quality improvement initiatives and actively involved with the VON, NICQ Collaborative.


Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts as soon as you enroll. You will have access to this course (videos) for two months. Please be sure to download lecture handouts for ongoing access to the content presented. You must complete and submit the Evaluation at the end of the course to receive CE.
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