neonate

A neonate is a newborn infant during the first 28 days of life. The term is used in medical and public health contexts to distinguish the first month from older infancy. The early neonatal period refers to days 0–7, while the late neonatal period spans days 8–28.

Vital signs are monitored, and the newborn is assessed at birth using APGAR scores at 1 and 5 minutes to gauge heart rate, respiration, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and skin color. A physical examination records growth measurements (weight, length, head circumference), feeding status, hydration, temperature regulation, and screening for congenital anomalies. Most healthy neonates are discharged within 24–72 hours after birth if full-term and well.

Common neonatal problems include hyperbilirubinemia causing jaundice, hypoglycemia, respiratory distress (especially in preterm or infants with infection or maternal diabetes), sepsis, congenital anomalies, and neonatal abstinence syndrome in infants exposed to certain drugs in utero.

Care and management in the immediate postnatal period focus on maintaining body temperature, airway clearance if needed, and initiating feeding. Breastfeeding is encouraged; formula is used when required. Umbilical cord care, safe sleep practices, and hygiene are important. Newborn screening tests (metabolic and genetic screens), hearing screening, and, where available, screening for critical congenital heart disease are performed. Vaccination often begins with hepatitis B at birth, while other vaccines are given according to local schedules.

Follow-up includes routine pediatric visits to monitor growth and development, screen for delayed milestones, and identify late-onset issues. Most neonates thrive with appropriate perinatal care, though outcomes vary with gestational age, birth weight, and access to care.