Final answer:
Infants weighing less than 3 lbs and 3 oz are termed as having a very low birth weight (VLBW). Birth weight is a vital health indicator, and VLBW infants need special medical attention due to increased risks of health and developmental challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infants weighing less than 3 lbs and 3 oz are termed as having a very low birth weight (VLBW). A full-term infant, one born between 36 and 40 weeks of gestation, typically has a birth weight averaging about 3.4 kg (7.5 lb). However, pre-term infants, including those categorized as VLBW, are usually smaller due to a shorter period of prenatal growth. These infants often have spent less time growing in the uterus, leading to their lower birth weights.
Birth weight is a crucial indicator of an infant's health and development. It is closely monitored as low birth weight, defined as less than 2.5 kg (5.5 lb), is associated with increased risks of early mortality and developmental challenges. It is essential to understand that a baby's birth weight is influenced by various factors including gestational age, maternal health, and prenatal nutrition.
VLBW babies require special medical attention to monitor their growth and development. During infancy, normal growth and weight gain are critical indicators of a baby's overall health. If an infant is not growing normally between doctor's visits, it could be a sign of undernutrition or another health issue that may lead to potential size deficits if left uncorrected.