Fluid and electrolyte management in term and preterm neonates

Abstract

Disorders of fluid and electrolyte are common in neonates and a proper understanding of the physiological changes in body water and solute after birth is essential to ensure a smooth transition from the aquatic in-utero environment. The newborn kidney has a limited capacity to excrete excess water and sodium and overload of fluid or sodium in the first week may result in morbidities like necrotizing enterocolitis, patent ductus arteriosus and chronic lung disease. Simple measures like use of transparent plastic barriers, coconut oil application, caps and socks are effective in reducing insensible water loss. Guidelines for the management of fluids according to birth weight, day of life and specific clinical conditions are provided in the protocol.