MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

Breathing & Infection Late preterm infants are at higher risk for breathing problems. This is because their lungs may not be entirely developed and must work harder to breathe. Because late preterm babies also have immature immune systems, they can develop infections more easily.

Signs & Symptoms

Call your baby’s health care provider immediately if you see any of the following signs: • Fast breathing (more than 60 breaths in a full minute) • Slow breathing (less than 30 breaths in a full minute) • Grunting, wheezing, or whistling sounds • Worrisome pauses in breathing (not uneven breaths, which can be normal) • Skin around baby’s chest or ribs pulls in • Nostrils widen when baby breathes • Color changes, like blue lips or pale skin • Is very fussy

Late Preterm Infant

Babies who are born between 34 weeks and 36 weeks and 6 days (3 to 6 weeks before their due date) are called late preterm infants . On the outside, they may appear to be fully developed. But late preterm babies may need extra care and attention, including: • More frequent measurement of body temperature and vital signs • Delayed bathing to help them maintain body temperature and stay warm Depending on a late preterm baby’s overall health, they may (or may not) be able to stay in your hospital room (room-in) after their birth. In some cases, your baby may need to receive specialized care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) until their health has stabilized. TEMPERATURE Late preterm babies get cold easily and use much of their energy to try and stay warm. This is because they haven’t had sufficient time to develop enough body fat to stay warm. What can help • Dress your baby in one more layer than you’re wearing • Don’t overdress them or let them get overheated • Hold your baby skin-to-skin (covered with blanket) to help them stay warm Call your baby’s health care provider right away if your baby: • Has bluish, pale, or blotchy skin • Is sleepy or sluggish • Has a temperature below 97.7°F or above 100.4°F

Jaundice Babies who are born early are at higher risk for developing jaundice (excessive bilirubin in blood). If your baby isn’t eating well, they’re at even greater risk. Babies are routinely tested and treated for jaundice before they leave the hospital. Follow up with baby’s health care provider in 1 to 2 days to make sure your newborn’s health is improving. You’ll find more detailed information about jaundice and how it is treated on page 27.

Call your baby’s health care provider immediately if your baby: • Has yellowish skin or eyes • Is not feeding well • Doesn’t make enough wet or dirty diapers (see page 31) • Has a high-pitched cry Signs & Symptoms

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care