Premature BabiesBrooke Jensen

Introduction Preterm death is the leading cause of death

among newborns. Prematurity is a growing, serious problem in

our world today that should be understood. This discusses the causes for preterm labor,

the health problems premature babies face, and the care that is done for these babies.

CausesRuptured amniotic sacMother’s overall healthSubstance Abuse

Alcohol Smoking Drugs

CausesMalnutritionHealth Problems

High blood pressure Diabetes Kidney disease

Infections

CausesDepressionDomestic ViolenceAgePrevious Premature DeliveryMultiple Babies

Common Health ProblemsRespiratoryVision Infections Intestinal

SkinCirculatoryNeurologicalDevelopmental

Common Health ProblemsRespiratory

Reduced lung function Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) Apnea Bronchopulonary Dysplasia (BPD) Asthma

Common Health ProblemsVision

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) Poor vision by age 10

Infections Underdeveloped immune system Pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis

Common Health Problems Intestinal

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)Skin

Jaundice

Common Health ProblemsCirculatory

Low blood pressure Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Anemia Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH)

Common Health ProblemsNeurological and Developmental

Cerebral palsy Autisim Chronic lung disease Blindness Deafness

Common Health ProblemsDevelopmental Cont.

Low IQ scores Poor adaptive functioning Functional limitations Low reproductive rates

Care “In the United States alone, the

annual cost of caring for preterm babies and their associated health problems is more than $26 billion a year.” – Preidt (2009)

CareNICU

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Gives baby an atmosphere of warmth

nutrition, and protection Incubator Sensors

CareNICU cont.

Machines hooked to incubators Artificial ventilation and oxygen

New technologies Device for ROP

Conclusion In conclusion, as still the leading cause of

newborn deaths, the growing premature birth rates should be taken seriously.

Covered the causes, health problems, and care

Prematurity is a growing, serious problem in our world today that should be understood.