Question

Discuss why a preterm infant is at risk for ineffective thermoregulation? The infant's low birth weight and gestational age means that

a) They have a decreased surface area relative to body mass.

b) They have a well-developed subcutaneous fat layer.

c) Their metabolic rate is higher than full-term infants.

d) They have an efficient shivering reflex.

Answer 1

Preterm infants are at risk for ineffective thermoregulation due to several factors, including decreased surface area relative to body mass, immature musculature, underdeveloped nervous systems, and little subcutaneous fat for insulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Newborns, especially preterm infants, are at risk for ineffective thermoregulation due to several factors. Firstly, they have a decreased surface area relative to body mass, which means their body has less volume to produce heat and more surface area to lose heat. Additionally, they have immature musculature and underdeveloped nervous systems, limiting their ability to generate heat by shivering or constricting blood vessels in response to cold. Lastly, preterm infants have little subcutaneous fat for insulation, further compromising their ability to maintain body temperature.