Risk factors for asphyxia neonatorum in full-term newborns at the University Hospital of Mahajanga Madagascar

Background: The aim of this survey was to study the risk factors associated with asphyxia neonatorum in full-term newborns in the neonatal unit in Child and Mother Complex at Androva Mahajanga Hospital.Methods: This was a retrospective case-control study conducted from August 2016 through September 2018.Results: The prevalence of neonatal asphyxia was 5.9%. Determinant factors for birth asphyxia were maternal education level below the tenth grade [OR=1.8 (1.2-2.6), p=0.003] especially if the mother was illiterate [OR=2.3 (1.5-3.6), p<0.001]; less than four prenatal care check-ups [OR=2.9 (1.7-4.9), p<0.001]; presence of maternal disease during pregnancy [OR=2.4 (1.6-3.6), p<0.001], arterial hypertension [OR=3.4 (1.6-7.2), p<0.001]; duration of labour ?24h [OR=2.1 (1.2-3.6); p=0.007] ; rupture of membranes ?12h [OR=2.9 (1.6-5.3), p<0.001]; labour outside teaching hospital [OR=21,1 (8,9-49,5), p<0,001]; home birth [OR=26.7 (3.6-199), p<0.001].Conclusions: Good monitoring of pregnancy, training of providers in neonatal resuscitation, and an increase in technical platforms could reduce the incidence of perinatal asphyxia.

Saturación arterial de oxígeno y frecuencia cardíaca en recién nacidos de término sanos durante la primera hora post nacimiento / Arterial oxygen saturation and heart rate in term newborn in the first hour after birth

INTRODUCCIÓN: El oxímetro de pulso ha sido útil en la evaluación cardiorrespiratoria del neonato. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la saturación arterial de oxígeno (SpO2) y frecuencia cardíaca (FC) en recién nacidos (RN) en los pri meros 60 minutos después del nacimiento. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO: Estudio observacional prospectivo en RN de término sanos, nacidos por vía vaginal o cesárea, con apego materno, efectuado a nivel del mar. Se obtuvo registro continuo de SpO2 post-ductal y de FC desde el minuto 1 al 10 post-natal, y luego a los 15, 30 y 60 minutos. La SpO2 y FC se midieron con un oxímetro de pulso Nellcor. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó programa Stata v.14. RESULTADOS: Se enrolaron 324 RNT sanos, que cum plieron criterios de inclusión, de los cuales 160 nacieron por vía vaginal y 164 por cesárea. La SpO2 aumentó progresivamente desde el minuto 1 (58,7%) hasta el minuto 10 (94,5%). Los RN por vía vaginal presentaron una SpO2 significativamente mayor hasta el minuto 10 post-natal respecto a los nacidos por cesárea (p < 0,001). En los neonatos nacidos por vía vaginal, la FC fue significativamente mayor en los 2 primeros minutos post-natales, y luego desde el minuto 10 al 60 (p < 0,003). No se encontraron diferencias por género en SpO2 y FC. CONCLUSIÓN: En RNT la SpO2 post-natal aumenta progresivamente, siendo mayor en los primeros 10 minutos en los nacidos por vía vaginal. En los RN por vía vaginal se observó también una FC mayor en los primeros y últimos minutos evaluados.

INTRODUCTION: The pulse oximeter has been useful in the cardiorespiratory evaluation of the newborn. OBJECTIVE: To assess arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) in newborns in the first 60 minutes after birth. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Prospective observational study in healthy term newborns, delivered vaginally or by cesarean section, with maternal bonding, carried out at sea level. A continuous post ductal SpO2 and HR record were obtained from minute 1 to 10 after birth, and then at 15, 30 and 60 minutes. The SpO2 and HR were measured with a Nellcor pulse oximeter. The software Stata v.14 was used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS: 324 healthy term newborns that met the inclusion criteria were included, of which 160 born vaginally and 164 by cesarean section. The SpO2 increased progres sively from minute 1 (58.7%) to minute 10 (94.5%). Newborns delivered vaginally had a significantly higher SpO2 until minute 10 after birth than those born by cesarean section (p < 0.001). In newborns delivered vaginally, HR was significantly higher in the first two minutes after birth, and then from minute 10 to 60 (p < 0.003). There were no differences by gender in SpO2 and HR. CONCLUSION: In term newborns, the SpO2 increases progressively, being higher in the first 10 minutes in those born vaginally. In newborns delivered vaginally, a higher HR was also observed in the first and last minutes evaluated.

Prevalencia de la alimentación exclusiva con lactancia materna en recién nacidos sanos / Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding in the healthy newborn

Resumen Introducción: El mejor alimento para los niños durante los primeros seis meses de vida es la lactancia materna exclusiva (LME); se recomienda continuar con el amamantamiento junto con otros alimentos que complementen la alimentación hasta los dos años o más, mientras madre e hijo lo deseen. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron determinar la tasa de LME en los recién nacidos a término (RNT) en el momento del alta hospitalaria y a los 15 días y analizar los factores que influyen positivamente en la LME. Métodos: Estudio prospectivo en el que se reclutó una muestra de puérperas con hijos a término durante su ingreso. Se recogieron diferentes variables y se realizaron dos entrevistas para determinar el tipo de alimentación que estaban dando a sus hijos y si se mantenía a los 15 días del parto. Resultados: La tasa de LME al recibir el alta hospitalaria es muy inferior a lo recomendado. Ésta disminuye de manera importante a los 15 días del parto, cuando aumenta la lactancia artificial (LA). Al parecer, el parto eutócico, no presentar complicaciones en el parto, realizar lactancia materna (LM) precoz y el contacto piel con piel en el paritorio son factores favorecedores para establecer una buena LM en el alta hospitalaria. Conclusiones: A pesar de los esfuerzos de los profesionales, el porcentaje de recién nacidos (RN) alimentados con LME al nacer no alcanza las recomendaciones actuales.

Abstract Background: The best nourishment for infants during the first 6 months of life is exclusive breastfeeding. It is recommended along with other food to complement the diet until the child is 2 years old, as long as the mother and the child are willing to continue with it. The objectives of this study were to determine he exclusive breastfeeding rate in full term newborns at hospital discharge and 15 days later and to analyze the factors that positively affect the exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: A prospective study was conducted in which a sample of postpartum women with full term newborns was recruited during hospital admission. Different variables were compiled and two interviews were made to determine the kind of feeding they were giving their children and if it was maintained at 15 days of birth. Results: Exclusive breastfeeding rate at hospital discharge is much lower than recommended. It significantly decreases at 15 days of birth, increasing artificial feeding. It seems that having a vaginal birth, no complications giving birth, providing early breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact in the delivery room are predisposing factors necessary to establish a good breastfeeding at hospital discharge. Conclusions: Despite the efforts of professionals, the percentage of newborns with exclusive breastfeeding at birth is not enough for the current recommendations.

Compound nutrient assisted phototherapy in the treatment of neonatal jaundice: a multicenter clinical study / 国际儿科学杂志

Objective To evaluate the curative effect of compound nutrient assisted phototherapy on neonatal jaundice.Methods Neonatologists at seven hospitals participated in the study.A total of three hundred and twenty full-term newborns with high indirect bilirubin admitted to hospital from September 2017 to January 2018 were selected.One hundred and sixty-six cases in the observation group,and one hundred and fifty-four cases in the control group,all enrolled neonates were given single-sided,conventional intensity phototherapy.Observation group took compound nutrient at the same time.The average gestational age,age,birth weight of two groups before treatment were not significantly different.Serum total biilirubin,indirect bidirubin,liver function (ALT,AST) and phototherapy time were monitored before treatment and 3 days after treatment.Results The serum total bilirubin in the observation group was significantly lower than that of the control group after 3 days of treatment[(196.7 ± 57.2) μmol/L vs (216.5 ± 54.6) μmol/L],(t=3.17,P＜0.01).The indirect bilirubin in the observation group was significantly lower than that of the control group after 3 days of treatment [(176.3 ± 54.3) μmol/L vs (197.2 ± 52.9) μmol/L],(t=3.50,P＜0.01).The time of phototherapy of the children in the observation group was significantly shorter than that of the control group[(19.8 ± 14.4)d vs (22.9 ± 13.3) d],(t =2.00,P ＜ 0.01).Rash,fever,bronze disease,spilled milk,vomiting,abdominal distention,diarrhea,constipation,liver damage etc.were no significant difference the observation group and the control group(P ＞ 0.05).Conclusion Compound nutrients had good efficacy and safety in adjuvant phototherapy for neonatal high indirect bidirubin.

Uso da sacarose para o alívio da dor: repercussão na amamentação materna durante a internação do recém-nascido a termo / Use of sucrose for pain relief: consequences on breastfeeding of fullterm newborns during hospitalization

Durante o período de internação, o recém-nascido (RN) é submetido a uma série de procedimentos dolorosos ou não, que podem incidir sobre o seu comportamento e sobre a confiança da mãe para o cuidado e para a amamentação materna. Temos como questionamento, se sacarose 25% que é oferecida como medida de alivio da dor em RN a termo internado em alojamento conjunto interfere negativamente na amamentação materna exclusiva durante a internação. Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre uso da sacarose 25% que é oferecida como medida de alívio dor aguda em RN a termo, e a amamentação materna durante a internação em alojamento conjunto. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, transversal, descritivo e analítico. A amostra foi constituída por 215 binômios cujo nascimento e internação ocorreram entre os meses de Junho a Setembro de 2017 em uma maternidade do interior paulista intitulada "Amiga da Criança". Os binômios foram incluídos no estudo somente após autorização da mãe, com assinatura de um termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido. Os dados foram coletados por meio do prontuário e planilhas especificas. Os RN foram divididos em dois grupos: RN expostos e não expostos ao uso da sacarose durante a internação. Como houve diferença estatística entre os grupos para o tempo de internação, para analisar a influência do uso da sacarose na amamentação durante toda internação, foi feita uma relativização das variáveis de aleitamento materno pelo total de dias de internação do RN. As associações foram verificadas pelo teste "U" de Mann-Whitney, com valor de p significativo para ? <= 0,05. Resultado: Dos 215 RN estudados durante toda internação, 111 (51,6%) RN foram expostos ao uso da sacarose. Foi utilizado sacarose para 188 (60,1%) dos procedimentos dolorosos, sendo que a mesma foi usada associada a outros métodos como o colo em 18 (5,7%) e sucção não nutritiva 64 (20,4%) dos procedimentos. Somando-se o uso isolado ou em associação a outras medidas, a sacarose foi utilizada 270 (86,2%) vezes sendo a medida mais aplicada na prática clínica da maternidade. No grupo que utilizou sacarose as médias de frequência de mamadas, uso de copo, translactação, tempo médio por mamada e amamentação assistida foram respectivamente: 7,9, 0,2, 0,5, 11,4 e 1,0 . No grupo que não utilizou a sacarose, respectivamente, as a médias das mesmas variáveis foram de 8,7, 0,03, 0,06, 18,6 e 0,8. Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos para as variáveis de alimentação: frequência de mamada (p=0,03), utilização de copo (p=0,01), realização de translactação (p=0,00), tempo médio por mamada (p=0,00) e amamentação assistida (p=0,02). Conclusão: As associações dos dados encontrados comprovaram a hipótese do presente estudo, ou seja o uso da sacarose a 25% para alívio da dor aguda influenciou negativamente na amamentação materna do RN durante a internação, pois, o grupo de RN que recebeu esta substância adocicada durante os procedimentos de punção arterial, venosa e capilar, apresentou menor frequência de mamada, menor tempo médio por mamada, maior uso de complemento lácteo, mais necessidade de translactação e necessitou de mais amamentação assistida por um profissional de enfermagem, quando comparado ao grupo de RN não expostos a ela. Faz-se necessária a inclusão de medidas não farmacológicas com a participação da mãe em substituição à sacarose, uma vez que tratou-se de pesquisa em uma Maternidade Amiga da Criança

Introduction: During the period of hospitalization, full-term newborns (NB) undergo a series of painful procedures, which may affect his behavior and the mother's confidence in both taking care of and breastfeeding the baby. We question whether 25% sucrose, which is offered as a measure of pain relief in hospitalized NB infants, negatively interferes with exclusive mother's breastfeeding during hospitalization in rooming-in care. Aim: Verify the association between the use of 25% sucrose offered as pain relief in full-term newborns and exclusive mother's breastfeeding during hospitalization in shared rooms. Methods: This is a study based on observation, and it is transversal, descriptive and analytical study. The sample consisted of 215 binomials whose birth and hospitalization occurred between June and September of 2017 in a maternity hospital in the countryside of São Paulo, in a Child-Friendly Maternity. The binomials were included in the study only after authorization obtained from the mother, with the signing of a free and previously informed consent form. The data were collected through medical records and specific worksheets. The NB were divided into two groups: NB exposed and not exposed to the use of sucrose during hospitalization, respectively. There was a statistical difference between the groups due to the hospitalization period; thus, to analyze the influence of sucrose use on breastfeeding during all hospitalization, a relative analysis of the variables of breastfeeding by the total number of days of hospitalization of the newborn was made. Associations were verified by the Mann-Whitney "U" test, with a significant p value for ? <= 0.05. Results: From 215 NBs studied during all hospitalization, 111 (51.6%) were exposed to the use of sucrose. Sucrose was applied for 188 (60.1%) of the painful procedures, and it was used in association with other methods such as lap in 18 (5.7%) and non-nutritive suction in 64 (20.4%) of the procedures. Added the isolate use or in association with other measures, sucrose was used 270 (86.2%) times, being the most applied measure in clinical practice of maternity. In the sucrose group, the average of frequency of feeding, cupping, translactation, average time per feeding and assisted breastfeeding were respectively: 7.9, 0.2, 0.5, 11.4 and 1.0. In the nonsucrose group, the average of the same variables were 8.7, 0.03, 0.06, 18.6 and 0.8, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for feeding variables: feeding frequency (p = 0.03), cup use (p = 0.01), translactation (p = 0.00), average time per feed (p = 0.00) and assisted breastfeeding (p = 0.02). Conclusion: The associations of the data confirmed the hypothesis of the present study, that is, the use of sucrose at 25% for acute pain relief influenced negatively the maternal breastfeeding of newborns during hospitalization, since the group of newborns who received this sugary substance during the venous and capillary puncture procedures, presented lower breastfeeding frequency, lower average time for breastfeeding, greater use of milky complement, higher need for translactation and required more breastfeeding assisted by a nursing professional, when compared to the NB group who was not exposed to it. It is necessary to include non-pharmacological measures with the participation of the mother instead of sucrose, since it was a research in a Child-Friendly Maternity

Uso da sacarose para o alívio da dor: repercussão na amamentação materna durante a internação do recém-nascido a termo / Use of sucrose for pain relief: consequences on breastfeeding of fullterm newborns during hospitalization

Introdução: Durante o período de internação, o recém-nascido (RN) é submetido a uma série de procedimentos dolorosos ou não, que podem incidir sobre o seu comportamento e sobre a confiança da mãe para o cuidado e para a amamentação materna. Temos como questionamento, se sacarose 25% que é oferecida como medida de alivio da dor em RN a termo internado em alojamento conjunto interfere negativamente na amamentação materna exclusiva durante a internação. Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre uso da sacarose 25% que é oferecida como medida de alívio dor aguda em RN a termo, e a amamentação materna durante a internação em alojamento conjunto. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, transversal, descritivo e analítico. A amostra foi constituída por 215 binômios cujo nascimento e internação ocorreram entre os meses de Junho a Setembro de 2017 em uma maternidade do interior paulista intitulada "Amiga da Criança". Os binômios foram incluídos no estudo somente após autorização da mãe, com assinatura de um termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido. Os dados foram coletados por meio do prontuário e planilhas especificas. Os RN foram divididos em dois grupos: RN expostos e não expostos ao uso da sacarose durante a internação. Como houve diferença estatística entre os grupos para o tempo de internação, para analisar a influência do uso da sacarose na amamentação durante toda internação, foi feita uma relativização das variáveis de aleitamento materno pelo total de dias de internação do RN. As associações foram verificadas pelo teste "U" de Mann-Whitney, com valor de p significativo para ? <= 0,05. Resultado: Dos 215 RN estudados durante toda internação, 111 (51,6%) RN foram expostos ao uso da sacarose. Foi utilizado sacarose para 188 (60,1%) dos procedimentos dolorosos, sendo que a mesma foi usada associada a outros métodos como o colo em 18 (5,7%) e sucção não nutritiva 64 (20,4%) dos procedimentos. Somando-se o uso isolado ou em associação a outras medidas, a sacarose foi utilizada 270 (86,2%) vezes sendo a medida mais aplicada na prática clínica da maternidade. No grupo que utilizou sacarose as médias de frequência de mamadas, uso de copo, translactação, tempo médio por mamada e amamentação assistida foram respectivamente: 7,9, 0,2, 0,5, 11,4 e 1,0 . No grupo que não utilizou a sacarose, respectivamente, as a médias das mesmas variáveis foram de 8,7, 0,03, 0,06, 18,6 e 0,8. Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos para as variáveis de alimentação: frequência de mamada (p=0,03), utilização de copo (p=0,01), realização de translactação (p=0,00), tempo médio por mamada (p=0,00) e amamentação assistida (p=0,02). Conclusão: As associações dos dados encontrados comprovaram a hipótese do presente estudo, ou seja o uso da sacarose a 25% para alívio da dor aguda influenciou negativamente na amamentação materna do RN durante a internação, pois, o grupo de RN que recebeu esta substância adocicada durante os procedimentos de punção arterial, venosa e capilar, apresentou menor frequência de mamada, menor tempo médio por mamada, maior uso de complemento lácteo, mais necessidade de translactação e necessitou de mais amamentação assistida por um profissional de enfermagem, quando comparado ao grupo de RN não expostos a ela. Faz-se necessária a inclusão de medidas não farmacológicas com a participação da mãe em substituição à sacarose, uma vez que tratou-se de pesquisa em uma Maternidade Amiga da Criança

Introduction: During the period of hospitalization, full-term newborns (NB) undergo a series of painful procedures, which may affect his behavior and the mother's confidence in both taking care of and breastfeeding the baby. We question whether 25% sucrose, which is offered as a measure of pain relief in hospitalized NB infants, negatively interferes with exclusive mother's breastfeeding during hospitalization in rooming-in care. Aim: Verify the association between the use of 25% sucrose offered as pain relief in full-term newborns and exclusive mother's breastfeeding during hospitalization in shared rooms. Methods: This is a study based on observation, and it is transversal, descriptive and analytical study. The sample consisted of 215 binomials whose birth and hospitalization occurred between June and September of 2017 in a maternity hospital in the countryside of São Paulo, in a Child-Friendly Maternity. The binomials were included in the study only after authorization obtained from the mother, with the signing of a free and previously informed consent form. The data were collected through medical records and specific worksheets. The NB were divided into two groups: NB exposed and not exposed to the use of sucrose during hospitalization, respectively. There was a statistical difference between the groups due to the hospitalization period; thus, to analyze the influence of sucrose use on breastfeeding during all hospitalization, a relative analysis of the variables of breastfeeding by the total number of days of hospitalization of the newborn was made. Associations were verified by the Mann-Whitney "U" test, with a significant p value for ? <= 0.05. Results: From 215 NBs studied during all hospitalization, 111 (51.6%) were exposed to the use of sucrose. Sucrose was applied for 188 (60.1%) of the painful procedures, and it was used in association with other methods such as lap in 18 (5.7%) and non-nutritive suction in 64 (20.4%) of the procedures. Added the isolate use or in association with other measures, sucrose was used 270 (86.2%) times, being the most applied measure in clinical practice of maternity. In the sucrose group, the average of frequency of feeding, cupping, translactation, average time per feeding and assisted breastfeeding were respectively: 7.9, 0.2, 0.5, 11.4 and 1.0. In the nonsucrose group, the average of the same variables were 8.7, 0.03, 0.06, 18.6 and 0.8, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for feeding variables: feeding frequency (p = 0.03), cup use (p = 0.01), translactation (p = 0.00), average time per feed (p = 0.00) and assisted breastfeeding (p = 0.02). Conclusion: The associations of the data confirmed the hypothesis of the present study, that is, the use of sucrose at 25% for acute pain relief influenced negatively the maternal breastfeeding of newborns during hospitalization, since the group of newborns who received this sugary substance during the venous and capillary puncture procedures, presented lower breastfeeding frequency, lower average time for breastfeeding, greater use of milky complement, higher need for translactation and required more breastfeeding assisted by a nursing professional, when compared to the NB group who was not exposed to it. It is necessary to include non-pharmacological measures with the participation of the mother instead of sucrose, since it was a research in a Child-Friendly Maternity

Morbimortalidad del recién nacido a término precoz en el hospital Hipólito Unanue de Tacna durante los años 2000 a 2014 / Morbimortality of early term newborns at Tacna's Hipólito Unanue hospital during the years 2000 to 2014

Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia, tasa de cesárea y riesgos de morbimortalidad del recién nacido a término precoz (RNTP). Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, analítico. Se incluyó a neonatos únicos vivos a término, nacidos en el hospital Hipólito Unanue de Tacna durante los años 2000 a 2014 (n=45332). Se comparó a los nacidos a termino precoz de 37 a 38 6/7 semanas (n=11276), y los nacidos a termino completo de 39 a 41 6/7 semanas (n=34056). Se utilizó frecuencia y tasa por 100 nacidos vivos, odds ratio (OR) con intervalos de confianza al 95% (IC 95%), regresión logarítmica y prueba "t" para muestras independientes. Se utilizó la base de datos del Sistema Informático Perinatal. Resultados: La frecuencia de nacidos a término precoz fue 22,5 por 100 nacidos vivos, con un crecimiento logarítmico significativo (p=0,03). Representó 24,9% de todos los recién nacidos a término. La tasa de cesárea se incrementó de 31,2% a 51,1% y su crecimiento fue similar al de los término completo. Se asoció al RNTP con mayor probabilidad de tener bajo peso al nacer (OR:5,33; IC 95%: 4,50-6,30), ser pequeño para la edad gestacional (OR:3,14; IC 95%: 2,69- 3,66), nacer por cesárea (OR: 3,15; IC 95%: 3,01-3,29), tener estancia hospitalaria de 3 días a más (OR: 1,46; IC 95%: 1,39-1,54), morbilidad respiratoria (OR: 1,81; IC 95%: 1,38-2,37) como neumonía (OR:3,02; IC 95%: 1,70-5,38), membrana hialina (OR: 4,17; IC 95%: 1,56-11,33) y taquipnea transitoria (OR: 2,95; IC 95%: 1,79-4,85); y malformaciones congénitas (OR: 1,46; IC 95%: 1,17-1,82), hiperbilirrubinemia (OR: 1,23; IC 95%: 1,02-1,49) y mortalidad neonatal (OR: 2,17; IC 95%: 1,45-3,23). Conclusión: La frecuencia de recién nacidos a término precoz en el hospital Hipólito Unanue de Tacna se incrementó en los últimos 15 años y se asoció a mayor riesgo de problemas respiratorios y mortalidad neonatal

Objective: To determine the frequency, cesarean section rate and morbidity and mortality risks for early term newborns. Material and methods: Non-experimental, cross-sectional study. We included single term live neonates born in Hipolito Unanue Hospital in Tacna from 2000 to 2014 (n= 45332). Early term newborns from 37 to 38 6/7 weeks (n= 11276), were compared with full term newborns from 39 to 41 6/7 weeks (n= 34056). We used frequencies and rates per 100 live births, odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), logarithmic regression and "t" test for independent samples. The Perinatal Computer System database was used. Results: The frequency of preterm infants was 22.5 per 100 live newborns, with a significant logarithmic growth (p= 0.03). This accounted for 24.9% of all full term newborns. The cesarean section rate increased from 31.2% to 51.1% and its growth was similar to that of full term newborns. It was associated with a higher risk of low birth weight (OR: 5.3; 95% CI:4.5-6.3), small for gestational age babies (OR: 3.14; 95% CI: 2.69-3.66), being born by cesarean section (OR: 3.15; 95% CI: 3.01-3.29), hospital stay of 3 days or more (OR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.39-1,54), respiratory morbidities (OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.38-2.37), such as pneumonia (OR: 3.02; 95% CI: 1.70-5.38), hyaline membrane (OR: 4.17; IC 95% CI: 1.56-11.33), and transient tachypnea (OR: 2.95; 95% CI: 1.79-4.85); and congenital malformations (OR: 1.46; IC 95% CI: 1.17-1.82), hyperbilirubinemia (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.02-1.49), and neonatal mortality (OR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.45-3.23). Conclusion: The frequency of early term newborns in Hipolito Unanue Hospital in Tacna increased in the last 15 years, and it was associated with an increased risk of respiratory problems and neonatal mortality

MERS-CoV Infection in a Pregnant Woman in Korea

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a lethal respiratory disease — caused by MERS-coronavirus (MERS-CoV) which was first identified in 2012. Especially, pregnant women can be expected as highly vulnerable candidates for this viral infection. In May 2015, this virus was spread in Korea and a pregnant woman was confirmed with positive result of MERS-CoV polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Her condition was improved only with conservative treatment. After a full recovery of MERS, the patient manifested abrupt vaginal bleeding with rupture of membrane. Under an impression of placenta abruption, an emergent cesarean section was performed. Our team performed many laboratory tests related to MERS-CoV and all results were negative. We report the first case of MERS-CoV infection during pregnancy occurred outside of the Middle East. Also, this case showed relatively benign maternal course which resulted in full recovery with subsequent healthy full-term delivery without MERS-CoV transmission.

Thyroid abnormalities in term infants with fungal sepsis / Alterações tireoidianas no recém-nascido de termo com sepse fúngica

Summary Objective: To describe thyroid alterations in term newborns (TNB) with fungal sepsis during NICU hospitalization. Method: The study included six TNB that during the clinical and laboratory manifestations of sepsis with positive cultures for fungus showed changes in thyroid hormones, called low T3 syndrome and low T3-T4 syndrome. TNB that could present hormonal changes caused by disease as those born to mothers with thyroid disease, or who had perinatal asphyxia and major surgeries were excluded. Results: Of six TNB with fungal sepsis, five had positive culture for Candida albicans and one had positive culture for Candida tropicalis. Low T3 syndrome was observed in two TNB (50%), while T3-T4 syndrome was observed in other two (100%). The four children progressed to septic shock. Conclusion: Fungal sepsis is becoming more common among newborns admitted to NICU. Thyroid insufficiency could be a marker of disease severity with possible need for hormone supplementation.

Resumo Objetivo: descrever as alterações tireoidianas em recém-nascidos de termo (RNT) que apresentaram sepse fúngica durante internação na UTI neonatal. Método: foram incluídos seis RNT que, durante as manifestações clínicas e laboratoriais de sepse, com culturas positivas para fungo, apresentaram alterações dos hormônios tireoidianos, denominadas síndrome do T3 baixo e síndrome do T3 e T4 baixo. Foram excluídos RNT que apresentaram alteração hormonal por doença, como RNT filhos de mães com doença tireoidiana, asfixia perinatal e cirurgias de grande porte. Resultados: dos seis RNT com sepse fúngica, cinco apresentavam cultura positiva para Candida albicans e um para C. tropicalis. A síndrome do T3 baixo foi observada em duas crianças (50%) e a do T3 e T4 baixo em dois RN (100%). As quatro crianças evoluíram com choque séptico. Conclusão: a sepse fúngica é cada vez mais frequente nos recém-nascidos internados em UTI neonatal. A insuficiência tireoidiana pode vir a ser marcadora de gravidade da doença, e a suplementação hormonal pode ser necessária.

Immunology of breast milk / Imunologia do leite materno

Summary In the critical phase of immunological immaturity of the newborn, particularly for the immune system of mucous membranes, infants receive large amounts of bioactive components through colostrum and breast milk. Colostrum is the most potent natural immune booster known to science. Breastfeeding protects infants against infections mainly via secretory IgA (SIgA) antibodies, but also via other various bioactive factors. It is striking that the defense factors of human milk function without causing inflammation; some components are even anti-inflammatory. Protection against infections has been well evidenced during lactation against, e.g., acute and prolonged diarrhea, respiratory tract infections, including otitis media, urinary tract infection, neonatal septicemia, and necrotizing enterocolitis. The milk’s immunity content changes over time. In the early stages of lactation, IgA, anti-inflammatory factors and, more likely, immunologically active cells provide additional support for the immature immune system of the neonate. After this period, breast milk continues to adapt extraordinarily to the infant’s ontogeny and needs regarding immune protection and nutrition. The need to encourage breastfeeding is therefore justifiable, at least during the first 6 months of life, when the infant’s secretory IgA production is insignificant.

Resumo Na fase crítica de imaturidade imunológica do recém-nascido, em especial do sistema imune de mucosas, o lactente recebe grandes quantidades de componentes bioativos através do colostro e do leite materno. O colostro é o reforço imunológico natural mais potente conhecido pela ciência. O aleitamento materno protege o lactente de infecções principalmente por meio dos anticorpos IgA secretores (IgAS), mas também por meio de vários outros fatores bioativos. É surpreendente que os fatores de defesa do leite humano ajam sem causar inflamação e alguns componentes são, de fato, anti-inflamatórios. A proteção contra infecções tem sido bem evidenciada durante a lactação, combatendo, por exemplo, diarreia aguda e prolongada, infecções do trato respiratório, incluindo otite média, infecção do trato urinário, sepse neonatal e enterocolite necrosante. O conteúdo imunológico do leite evolui ao longo do tempo: nas fases iniciais de lactação, IgAS, fatores anti-inflamatórios e, mais provavelmente, as células imunologicamente ativas provêm ajuda adicional para o sistema imune imaturo do neonato. Depois desse período, o leite materno continua a adaptar-se extraordinariamente à ontogenia infantil, às suas necessidades de proteção imune e nutricionais. Entende-se, portanto, a necessidade de se estimular o aleitamento materno pelo menos durante o primeiro semestre de vida, período em que a produção própria de IgA secretória é ainda pouco significativa.

Recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos, un grupo de riesgo / Late preterm newborns, a group at risk

INTRODUCCIÓN: los recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos eran considerados de bajo riesgo y tratados de manera similar a los niños nacidos a término, pero estudios recientes han demostrado que tienen mayor riesgo de presentar complicaciones y de morir. OBJETIVO: caracterizar a los recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos ingresados en el servicio de neonatología del Hospital Maternoinfantil Dr. "Ángel Arturo Aballí," de 2009 a 2013. MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio observacional, de cohortes, en recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos, comparados con los neonatos nacidos a término. El universo de estudio estuvo constituido por 2 453 niños ­que coincidió con la muestra­ conformada por 385 recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos y 2 068 nacidos a término. Las variables estuvieron relacionadas con la madre y el recién nacido, sus complicaciones y mortalidad. RESULTADOS: la hipertensión arterial materna y el asma bronquial se asociaron al nacimiento de recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos (p= 0,00). Los recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos tuvieron 6,6 veces más riesgo de necesidad de reanimación y 5,1 de ventilación mecánica, que los niños nacidos a término, presentaron más riesgo de complicaciones como ictericia RR: 1,3 (1,14-1,59), hipoglucemia RR: 2,3 (1,05-5,19) y enfermedad de la membrana hialina RR: 101,8 (19,78-524,10), y tuvieron 6,5 veces más riesgo de morir. CONCLUSIONES: los recién nacidos pretérminos tardíos tienen más riesgo de presentar complicaciones a corto plazo y de morir que los recién nacidos a término.

INTRODUCTION: the late preterm newborns were considered as low risk infants and treated in a similar way to the term newborns, but recent studies have proved that they face higher risk of presenting complications and of dying.OBJECTIVE: to characterize late preterm newborns admitted to the neonatology service of "Angel Arturo Aballí" maternal and infantile hospital from 2009 to 2013. METHODS: observational cohort study performed in late preterm newborns in comparison with term neonates. The universe of study was 2 453 children, which matched the sample, made up of 385 late preterm newborns and 2 068 term neonates. The variables were associated with the mother and the newborn, complications and mortality. RESULTS: maternal blood hypertension and bronchial asthma were associated to the birth of late preterm newborns (p= 0.00). The risk of requiring resuscitation and mechanical ventilation were 6.6 times and 5.1 times higher in preterm newborns than in term neonates, respectively; they faced more risks of complications such as jaundice RR, 1.3 (1.14-1.59), hypoglycemia RR: 2.3 ((1,05-5,19) and hyaline membrane disease RR: 101.8 (19.78-524.10) and the risk of dying was 6.5 times higher. CONCLUSIONS: the late preterm newborns take more risks of short-term complications and of dying than the term neonates.

Nonthyroidal illnesses syndrome in full-term newborns with sepsis

ABSTRACT Objective To assess hormonal changes in nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) in full-term newborns (NT) with sepsis. Materials and methods We included 28 NT with sepsis divided into 2 groups according to the time of normalization of serum and clinical indicators of infection: group A(A), 16 NT with improvement in up to 8 days; and group B(B), 12 NT improvement after 8 days. Among the 28 NT, 15 NT progressed to septic shock, with 5 NT group A and 10 NT in group B. NT were excluded when they showed severe sepsis and asphyxia, and congenital malformations, as well as those whose mothers had thyroid disease and IUGR. Results 17 NT (60.7%) presented NTIS. Low T3 was observed in NTIS in 10 NT (58.8%), and low T4 and T3 in 5 NT (29.5%), all of them with septic shock. Two NT showed mixed changes (11.7%). After sepsis was cured, there was no hormonal change, except in 3 NT. Administration of dopamine, furosemide, and corticosteroids did not affect the results. Conclusions This study indicates that nonthyroidal illness syndrome may be transiently present during sepsis in full-term newborns, especially in cases of prolonged sepsis. Low T3 can occur without changes in reverse T3 (different from adults), and low T4 and T3 occur mainly in patients with septic shock. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2015;59(6):528-34.

Clinical Characteristics of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in Full-Term Newborns without Risk Factors

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the characteristics and symptoms of full-term newborns without risk factors who were diagnosed with acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRI). METHODS: Nasopharyngeal aspirates were obtained from 72 full-term newborns to 30 days of age who were diagnosed with ALRI from September 2011 to November 2013 and analyzed by multiplex real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: Viruses were detected in 60 newborns (83.3%). Single viruses were observed in 56 newborns (77.7%). The most commonly detected viral agent was respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (63.8%), followed by parainfluenza virus (6.9%), rhinovirus A/B (4.1%), and human coronavirus (2.7%). Clinical diagnoses of ALRI in newborns with a single virus included pneumonia (66.07%), bronchiolitis (30.43%), bronchitis (5.35 %), and croup (1.79%). There were no differences in epidemiological characteristics between RSV and other viruses. However, newborns diagnosed with RSV had prolonged hospitalizations and significantly increased respiratory rates. CONCLUSION: Respiratory viruses, especially RSV, are pivotal causes of ALRI in newborns. Further, studies on RSV severity and vaccination are necessary to reduce hospitalization and mortality of full-term infants.

The Characteristics of Spontaneous Otoacoustic Emissions in Full -term Newborns / 听力学及言语疾病杂志

Objective To analyze the characteristics of spontaneous otoacoustic emission in full-term newbo‐rns .Methods The Capella OAE equipment (Madsen ,Denmark) was used to test Spontaneous Otoacoustic Emission (SOAE) in 147 cases (236ears) who have passed the newborn hearing screening with TEOAE(Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions) .Results The SOAE incidence was 56 .77% (male 41 .51% ,female 69 .23% ;left ear 49 .14% ,right ear 64 .17% ) .It was significantly higher in females (P<0 .05) and in right ear (P<0 .05) .The av‐erage amplitude was 11 .78 ± 8 .36 dB SPL( 11 .73 ± 8 .25 dB in male ,11 .81 ± 8 .43 dB SPL in female;11 .97 ± 8 .56 dB SPL in the left ear ,11 .65 ± 8 .22 dB SPL in the right ear) .There were significant differences in genders(P<0 .01) .The frequency of SOAE focused on 3 .2~ 3 .7 kHz(2 .9~3 .4 kHz in males ,3 .4~3 .9 kHz in females ;3 .2~3 .7 kHz in the left ears ,3 .2~3 .6 kHz in the right ears) .There were significant differences in genders(P<0 .01) .The average peak of SOAE was 3 .70 ± 2 .75(3 .86 ± 2 .87 in males ,3 .62 ± 2 .70 in females;3 .70 ± 3 .02 in the left ears ,3 .70 ± 2 .55 in the right ears) .There were no significant differences in genders and laterality .Conclusion The characteristics of SOAE in full-term newborns include higher incidences ,multiple peaks and high frequency distribution .

Assessment of the central corneal thickness and intraocular pressure in premature and full-term newborns.

Purpose: To assess the central corneal thickness (CCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in premature and full-term newborns. Materials and Methods: In this study, we evaluated measurements of CCT and IOP in 45 premature and 45 full-term newborns. IOP was determined with topical anesthesia using a Tono-Pen AVIA, applanation tonometer and a wire lid retractor in premature newborns undergoing screening for retinopathy. Full-term newborns were used as a control group. CCT was determined with a portable pachymeter after IOP measurements had been made in both groups. Because there was high correlation of CCT and IOP between right and left eyes, only the right eye data were used for further analyses. Results: The mean gestational age was 31.5 ± 2.7 weeks (ranging 25-35 weeks) and the mean age at measurement after birth was respectively 36.3 ± 0.9 weeks (ranging 33-37 weeks) in premature newborns and 38.2 ± 0.7 weeks (ranging 38-41 weeks) and 42 ± 2.2 weeks (ranging 39-46 weeks) in full-term newborns. The mean IOP was 16.2 ± 2.7 mmHg (ranging 10-22 mmHg) in premature and 16.6 ± 2.3 mmHg (ranging 10-22 mmHg) in full-term newborns. The mean CCT was found 600 ± 50 μm (ranging 515- 790 μm) in the premature group and 586 ± 48 μm (ranging 475-730 μm) in the full-term group. Mean CCT was greater in premature newborns than in full-term newborns, but the diff erence between groups was not statistically signifi cant (P = 0.7). Mean IOP measurement in two groups was found very similar and the diff erence also was not statistically signifi cant (P = 0.27). There was no correlation between IOP and CCT, gestational age, gestational weight, age at measurement, weight at measurement neither right nor left eye in both groups in multiple regression analysis. Conclusion: We found that premature infants have slightly thicker corneas but no high IOP measurements than full-term newborns. It could be concluded that in premature at the mean gestational age of 36 weeks CCT is not diff erent from that of full-term newborns.

Morbilidad del recién nacido prematuro tardío durante su primer mes de vida comparado con el recién nacido de término / Late premature newborn, morbidity in the first month of life compared with term infants

Introducción: En los últimos años ha habido un incremento de recién nacidos cercanos a término; esta prematurez tardía se asocia con un aumento en la morbilidad y mortalidad neonatal, por lo que es interesante conocer las diferencias en la morbilidad de este grupo de pacientes, en comparación con los recién nacidos a término. Objetivo: Evaluar la morbimortalidad temprana y durante el primer mes de vida del prematuro tardío en comparación con el recién nacido a término. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio comparativo de dos cohortes de recién nacidos. Grupo 1: recién nacidos prematuros tardíos de 34 a 36.6 semanas de gestación, y Grupo 2: recién nacidos a término. Se compararon 15 variables relacionadas a morbimortalidad. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva, para la comparación entre grupos t de Student y para comparar la morbilidad se determinó el riesgo relativo con el 95% de intervalo de confianza. Resultados: Se incluyeron 59 prematuros tardíos y 69 nacidos a término. De los factores maternos estudiados no hubo diferencias significativas. Respecto a los neonatos, existió un mayor riesgo del prematuro tardío para hiperbilirrubinemia (OR: 1.7 con IC 95% 1.1-2.65, reflujo gastroesofágico 1.8 con IC 95% 1.1-2.9 y dificultad en la alimentación (OR 1.66 con IC 95% 1.14-2.4). Conclusiones: Los riesgos de morbilidad encontrados en el prematuro tardío son aquellos que se presentan por su propia prematurez. No se encontró morbilidad en el prematuro tardío, secundaria a patología materna asociada.

Introduction: In recent years there has been an increase in the number of births of infants near term; this late prematurity is associated with increased neonatal morbidity and mortality, so it is important to know the differences in morbidity in this group of patients compared with term newborns, during the first month of life. Objective: To evaluate the early morbidity and during the first month of life of late preterm compared with term infants. Material and methods: We performed a comparative study of two cohorts of infants. Cohort 1: Late preterm infants from 34 to 36.6 weeks of gestation and Cohort 2; term infants. The morbidity was recorded during the first month of life, 15 variables were measure. We used descriptive statistic, for comparison between groups Student's t and to compare morbidity between groups the relative risk with 95% confidence interval. Results: We included 59 late preterm and 69 term infants. Of the maternal factors studied no statistically significant difference was found; respect to neonatal morbidity, we identified a great risk in the late preterm risk for hyperbilirubinemia (OR 1.7, CI 95% 1.1-2.65), gastroesophageal reflux (OR 1.8, CI 95% 1.1-289) and feeding difficulties (OR: 1.66, CI 95% 1.14-2.42). Conclusions: The risk of morbidity in late preterm found are those related to their own prematurity. In this study, there was no pathology associated with maternal morbidity in late preterm.

Accidente vascular encefálico en recién nacidos de término y pretérmino tardíos / Brain strokes in late preterm and term newborns

Background: Brain strokes are uncommon in term and late preterm newborns. Nevertheless, they can appear and may be diagnosed when suspected. Appropriate diagnostic techniques, available nowadays, allow a better etiologic and therapeutic approach. Objective: To report late preterm and term newborns who presented an hemorrhagic or ischemic brain stroke. Methods: Retrospective analysis of clinical charts at the Neonatology Service of Clínica Las Condes, Santiago-Chile, between January 2001 and March 2008. Results: 0.07 percent (8/10639) of these newborns presented brain stroke; 6 hemorrhagic and 2 ischemic strokes. 2 cases were diagnosed as congenital thrombophylia. No deaths were found in this survey. Conclusions: No differences in frequency were found in relation to data reported. Seizures can be the first clinical manifestation; however, subtle forms must lead to diagnostic suspicion. Appropriate diagnostic techniques may allow an accurate diagnosis and integral therapeutic approach of these patients.

Introducción: Los Accidentes Vasculares Encefálicos (AVE) no constituyen un diagnóstico frecuente en el grupo de Recién Nacidos de término (RNT) y pretérmino tardíos (PTT). A pesar de esto, tampoco es una situación inusual y su diagnóstico dependerá en forma importante del grado de sospecha. El uso de las apropiadas técnicas diagnósticas ha permitido una mejor caracterización de estos eventos, lo que permite en ocasiones llegar a un diagnóstico etiológico con la consiguiente optimización en el manejo. Objetivo: Caracterizar el AVE en recién nacidos de término y pretérmino tardíos. Método: Análisis retrospectivo de la ficha clínica de los pacientes RNT y RNPTT con diagnóstico de AVE nacidos entre Enero del año 2001 a Marzo del año 2008 en el Servicio de Neonatología de la Clínica Las Condes, Santiago. Resultados: Se incluyeron 8 casos, lo que corresponde al 0,07 por ciento de la muestra estudiada (n= 10 639), 6 de ellos presentaron AVE hemorrágico y los 2 restantes se trataron de AVE isquémicos. En 2 casos de la serie se pesquisó trombofilia congénita. No hubo mortalidad asociada en los casos analizados. Conclusiones: La frecuencia fue similar a la de diferentes series anteriormente publicadas. La crisis convulsiva puede ser la primera manifestación clínica, pero hay otras manifestaciones clínicas más sutiles que pueden hacer sospechar el diagnóstico. El uso apropiado de las actuales técnicas diagnósticas puede llevar a un diagnóstico de certeza facilitando el manejo integral del paciente.

Comparação entre as células-tronco de sangue de cordão umbilical de neonatos prematuros e nascidos a termo: uma revisão / Comparison between preterm and full-term newborn umbilical cord blood stem cells: a review

As células-tronco são células capazes de gerar diferentes tipos celulares. Entre as fontes de células-tronco encontra-se osangue de cordão umbilical que apresenta um grande número de progenitores hematopoéticos. Essa fonte vem sendo amplamente utilizada em transplantes devido a diversas vantagens, entre elas, a imediata disponibilidade, beneficiando pacientes com doenças hematológicas e imunológicas. Para o sucesso dos transplantes, há a necessidade de se considerar a freqüência das células-tronco nas amostras de sangue de cordão umbilical. Marcadores celulares específicos como a presença da molécula CD34 e a ausência de CD38 indicam o grau de imaturidade das células-tronco hematopoéticas e, conseqüentemente, a sua grande capacidade de proliferação e diferenciação celular. Existem diferenças quanto à freqüência das células-tronco no sangue de cordão umbilical entre neonatos nascidos a termo e prematuros. Essas diferenças podem ser importantes na escolha das amostras armazenadas nos bancos de sangue de cordão umbilical a serem utilizadas nos transplantes de células-tronco. Além disso, as pesquisas com células-tronco têm mostrado grande capacidade de proliferação e diferenciação em vários tecidos. O estudo das células-tronco pode ser a resposta para o tratamento de doenças cardíacas, neurológicas e imunológicas de inúmeros pacientes e, talvez, o primeiro passo para a cura.

Stem cells are cells that have the ability to give rise to different cell types. Among the sources of stem cells, there is the umbilical cord blood, which has a great number of hematopoietc progenitors. This source has been widely used in transplants owingto its advantages like, for example, immediate availability, improving patients with immunological and hematological diseases. In order for the transplant to be successful, it is necessary to consider the stem cell frequency within the samples of the umbilical cord blood. Specific markers like the presence of CD34 molecule and the absence of CD38 indicates the immature level of hematopoietic stemcells and consequently their ability of cellular proliferation and differentiation. There are differences between the cellular frequency in umbilical cord blood from preterm and term newborn. These differences might be important in order for finding a sample stored atumbilical cord blood banks for the transplant. Nevertheless, research using stem cells has attempted that these cells have a great capacity of proliferation and differentiatin into many tissues. Stem cell research offers hope for the treatment of cardiac, neurological and imunological diseases of countless patients and, perhaps, the first step to the cure.

Risk factors and clinical characteristics of necrotizing enterocolitis in full-term newborns / 소아과

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine those factors which could contribute to the development of necrotizing enterocolitis(NEC) in fullterm. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical record of 20 full-terms with NEC(> or = modified Bell's staging criteria IIa) who were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Il Sin Christian hospital from January 1998 through July 2005, and for each case, the next 2 healthy newborns were matched as controls. RESULTS: Mean gestational age and birth weight in the fullterm with NEC group was 38.42 weeks and 2,915 g; in the healthy fullterm without NEC group, it was 38.61 weeks and 3,148 g. When compared with the control group, NEC infants had a significantly higher frequency of chorioamnionitis, protracted diarrhea. As for Apgar score at 1 min <7, respiratory problem, congenital heart disease. there were no differences in frequency of preeclampsia, maternal diabetes, maternal drug abuse, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, polycythemia or exchange transfusion. CONCLUSION: Most of these full term infants have a predisposing factor before developing NEC. Our study suggested that NEC in fullterm infants was significantly associated with protracted diarrhea, and congenital heart disease.

Assistência aos pais de recém-nascidos pré-termo em unidades neonatais / Assistance to parents of preterm newborns in neonatal units / Asistencia a los padres de recién nacidos pre-término en unidades neonatales

O objetivo deste trabalho é refletir sobre a assistência aos pais de neonatos prematuros e de baixo peso ao nascer, em unidades neonatais, fundamentando-se em dados da literatura e em experiências práticas das autoras. Embora o direito materno de permanecer junto ao filho esteja assegurado por lei, a grande maioria dos berçários ainda mantém os horários restritos de visita. Todavia, já se dispõe de serviços que liberam totalmente a permanência materna nestes berçários, questionando se é permitido o envolvimento efetivo dos pais com os cuidados do filho. Na assistência de enfermagem, as autoras sugerem estratégias de intervenção visando a adaptação dos pais a nova situação e o fortalecimento do vínculo entre pais e bebê, dentre elas destacam-se: o livre acesso dos pais ao berçário; incentivo ao contato físico precoce entre pais e filho; implantação de grupos de apoio envolvendo equipe multiprofissional e pais de bebês em diferentes estágios de evolução clínica; incentivo ao aleitamento materno e à execução de cuidados diretos ao filho; implantação de redes de apoio formal e informal dirigidas aos pais durante a hospitalização do filho e após a alta hospitalar.

The purpose of this study is to reflect about the assistance to be given to parents of preterm and low weight babies, born in neonatal units, based on existing literature and the authors' practical experiences. Although mothers right to be close to their babies is assured by law, most of the nurseries still keep strict visit schedules to parents. However, there are some units where mothers' permanency is allowed. The question, in these cases, is if parents effective involvement in the care of the baby should or should not be allowed. For the nursing care unit, the authors suggest some intervention strategies to adapt parents to the new situation, and to strengthen the relationship between them and the baby. The recommendations are as follows: parents free access to the nurseries; motivation of early physical contact between parents and baby; implementation of multi-professional support groups to help parents during the different stages of clinical evolution; incentive for breastfeeding, and direct care of the babies; structuring of formal and informal groups of support for parents during and after hospitalization.

El objetivo de este trabajo es hacer una reflexión sobre la asistencia a los padres de niños prematuros cuyo peso fue bajo al nacer. Dicha atención a los padres se da en las unidades neonatales, con base en datos de la literatura y en experiencias prácticas de las autoras. Aunque el derecho materno de permanecer junto al hijo esté asegurado por ley, la gran mayoría de las unidades de cuidados neonatales tienen unos horarios de visita bastante restrictos. Sin embargo, otros servicios liberan totalmente la permanencia de la madre en estas unidades, y además, existe la duda y se discute si sería conveniente tal envolvimiento efectivo de los padres respecto a los cuidados con el hijo. En la asistencia de enfermería, las autoras sugieren estrategias de intervención que visen la adaptación de los padres a la nueva situación y al fortalecimiento del vínculo entre los padres y el bebé. Entre ellas destacamos: el libre acceso de los padres a la unidad; incentivo al contacto físico precoz entre padres e hijo; implementación de grupos de apoyo involucrando el equipo multiprofesional y padres de bebés en diferentes etapas de evolución clínica; incentivo a la lactancia materna y a que practiquen cuidados directamente al hijo; desarrollo de redes de apoyo formal e informal dirigidas a los padres durante la hospitalización del hijo y después de la salida del hospital.