In this book, the editors have succeeded in bringing together many renowned authors in the field. They discuss the physical principles of heat transfer in various heating devices used in neonatal care for temperature distribution throughout the body, such as incubators, open radiant warmers, and heated mattresses, as well as the significance of simultaneously monitoring core and periphal temperature. Alongside a treatment of extreme thermal conditions, contributions also pinpoint the optimal thermal environment. An invaluable aid for all those working in the field of neonatal care, including doctors, scientists, students, and nurses. This volume gives background information on thermoregulation as it applies to low birth weight and sick neonates. The physical principles of heat transfer of various heating devices, such as incubators, open radiant warmers, and heated mattresses, which are used in neonatal care for temperature distribution throughout the body are described and the significance of simultaneous core and periphal temperature monitoring discussed. The chapters have been written by several authors who are well known in the field. The book is intended for use by all professionals, including doctors, scientists, students, and nurses, working in the field of neonatal care.

Thermodynamic Principles

1 The Concept of Thermoregulation
2 Metabolic Background of Neonatal Heat Production, Energy Balance, Metabolic Response to Heat and Cold
3 Physics of Neonatal Heat Transfer, Routes of Heat Loss and Heat Gain
4 Body Temperature in Sick Neonates, Deseases and Biochemical Disturbances
Temperature Monitoring
5 Temperature Measurements and Distribution of Temperatures throughout the Body in Neonates
6 Thermal Monitoring of very Preterm Infants. Which Temperature should be Measured?
7 Experiences with Thermal Monitoring, Influence of Neonatal Care and how should it be Monitored
8 Temperature Control in Preterm Infants - Effect of Birthweight and Gestational Age
9 Thermal Monitoring in Sick Neonates
Optimal Thermal Environment
10 Physical Properties of the Thermal Environment
11 Effect of the Thermal Environment on Neonatal Mortality and Morbidity: State of the Evidence
12 Treatment of Sick Newborns in Incubators
13 Treatment of Sick Newborns under Radiant Warmers
14 Treatment of Sick Newborns with Heated Mattresses
15 Aspects of Hygiene
Extreme Thermal Conditions
16 Prevention of Neonatal Hypothermia in the Delivery Room
17 Transportation of Sick Newborns in a Cold Environment.