Study note
PediatricsNewborn Care

Why newborns are vulnerable to hypothermia

THE CONTEXT
Newborns have limited heat production and physical characteristics that increase heat loss.

Heat regulation and production

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Immature heat-regulating mechanisms predispose newborns to hypothermia.
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Neonates have limited capacity to generate heat, including through brown fat.

Factors promoting heat loss

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A large surface area relative to body weight, thin permeable skin, and low subcutaneous fat increase hypothermia risk.
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The head forms a significant portion of the newborn’s body surface area and can contribute significantly to overall heat loss.
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Low environmental temperature also contributes to hypothermia.
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