Introduction for Nursing Diagnosis: Neonatal Hypothermia Risk
Nursing diagnosis consists of nursing assessment or a set of clinical judgements regarding a problem/issues or potential issues by a registered general nurse or advanced practice nurse related to the health care of a particular individual, family, or community. It is an important element of nursing process and comprises part of the nursing care plans.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Neonatal Hypothermia Risk is defined as a risk that a newborn infant will experience symptoms of hypothermia which may affect the normal physiological development and health due to factors such as inadequate temperature control or decreased caloric intake.
Defining Characteristics
Subjectives
- Persistent decrease in rectal temperature
- Projectedly impaired growth and/or development
- Decreased caloric intake
Objectives
- Cool extremities
- Cold diaphoresis
- Cyanotic skin
- Marked lethargy, stupor or comatose
- Poor swallowing or feeding
Related Factors
- Inadequate temperature control in the newborn environment
- Decreased caloric intake due to poor sucking, swallowing, or feeding
Risk Population
The risk population includes newborns who are born prematurely or those with congenital anomalies, neurologic problems, respiratory or other disorders.
Associated Problems
Paralytic ileus, aspiration pneumonia, gastrointestinal necrosis, volume depletion, central apnea, delayed neurologic development, jaundice, polycythemia, intracranial hemorrhage and increased morbidity/ mortality.
Suggestions for Use
Neonatal Hypothermia Risk should be evaluated immediately following delivery of the newborn, since hypothermia can rapidly develop and can lead to irreversible consequences.
Suggested Alternatives NANDA Diagnoses
- Risk for Ineffective Thermoregulation
- Risk for Impaired Oral Mucous Membrane
Usage Tips
Nursing interventions should promote adequate temperature control and caloric intake. The use of warmed blankets, heated gowns or underpads, phototherapy, or other heated containers can be used to increase heat gain.
NOC Results
- Neonatal Risk Assessment: The newborn’s temperature and state of thermoregulation are identified.
- Neonatal Nutrition: Nutritional requirements for the neonate are identified and implemented.
- Neonatal Respiratory Status: The newborn’s respiratory status is within normal limits.
NIC Interventions
- Heat Conservation: Applying thermal care measures to conserve the newborn’s temperature.
- Monitor Lung Sound: Monitoring lung sound to detect early signs of respiratory difficulty.
- Supportive Care: Providing physical, psychological, and social support to the family.
- Discharge Planning: Providing information on home care activities, precautions, and follow-up care once the neonate is discharged from the hospital.
Conclusion
Neonatal Hypothermia Risk is an important nursing diagnosis that needs to be assessed, monitored, and managed appropriately to ensure the newborn’s health, development, and well-being. With prompt recognition and implementation of appropriate interventions, the nursing diagnosis can reduce the risks associated with hypothermia in the newborn.
FAQ
- What are the causes of Neonatal Hypothermia Risk? The causes of Neonatal Hypothermia Risk include inadequate temperature control in the newborn environment, decreased caloric intake, and premature birth or congenital anomalies.
- What are the nursing interventions for Neonatal Hypothermia Risk? The nursing interventions for Neonatal Hypothermia Risk include heat conservation, monitoring lung sound, supportive care, and discharge planning.