This document discusses preterm and low birth weight infants. Key points include:
- Birth weight below 2,500g is considered low birth weight, which can be due to prematurity or restricted growth.
- Preterm infants are born before 38 weeks gestation and have increased risks due to anatomical and functional immaturity.
- Indian preterm rates are higher than Western countries. Prematurity is associated with numerous socioeconomic factors.
- Preterm infants require specialized care in the NICU to address physiological immaturity of organ systems and higher risks of complications like respiratory distress and infections.
- Growth, feeding tolerance, vital signs stability and weight gain are monitored as indicators of preterm infant health and readiness for