Question

Neonates can lose up to what % of birth weight due to low levels of intake and excretion of fluids through lungs, bladder, and bowel?

a) 5%
b) 10%
c) 15%
d) 20%

Answer 1

Neonates can normally lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first week of life due to fluid excretion and intake adjustments.

Step-by-step explanation:

Neonates can lose up to 10% of their birth weight due to several normal and expected processes occurring after birth. This weight loss is attributed to low levels of intake, the resorption and urination of fluid that initially fills the lungs, and excretion of fluids through the lungs, bladder, and bowel. A contributing factor to this initial weight loss may be the delay in establishing effective feeding. After the first week of life, a healthy neonate should begin to gain weight, around 20 g (0.7 oz) per day.