Common Neonatal Problems

This chapter introduces the reader to the most common problems encountered at or shortly after birth, concentrating in the main on those relating to the term fetus/neonate. It highlights some of the more common problems facing the newborn infant. Most babies are born healthy and remain so throughout their lives. However, they can develop a number of common problems which, while not necessarily life threatening, may nonetheless cause significant morbidity and parental anxiety. One of the most common problems that paediatricians review is acute respiratory embarrassment. The majority of neonatal fractures will heal uneventfully with conservative treatment. Increasingly, neonatal pulse oximetry is used as part of the examination to screen babies for both undiagnosed cardiac and non-cardiac anomalies. During the neonatal period, the main concern is one of feeding, and referral for specialist advice at an early stage is paramount. Most common neonatal problems are not life threatening.